Your first step to getting into the Jewelry Store Business, is to
do your homework! The top 3 things that you'll have to have a basic knowledge of walking in the door are...
Diamonds, (More importantly, an understanding of the 4 C's!) Gemstones, (Knowing which Gemstone or Birthstone goes with each Month is usually enough to start!) & Metals. (Have a basic understanding of the different types of Metals out there. Gold, 10kt, 14kt, 18kt, White Gold, Platinum, Titanium, Steel, Silver, things like that!)
Knowing some basic facts about Jewelry and Gems will keep you from looking foolish in front of a customer. Plus, you won't have to stop every 2 seconds and ask questions. (That's annoying!) So when someone asks what the Gold Content of a Ring is, you'll know the answer!
So the big rule is... Study up!
Diamonds, Gems and Metals are the top 3 things that will help you get your foot in the door. Just knowing some basics about those topics will make you stand out in an interview. It will show the Manager or Owner that you have a passion for Jewelry and a passion for Learning! That alone can usually be enough to hire you.
You don't need any other Education. No Training. Just be reliable and learn! And if you have Sales experience, all the better!
But, learning HOW to sell, is a whole different topic. You see, you can either Sell, or you can't Sell! It's as simple as that. To some, it comes naturally. Others have to struggle with it and it just never seems smooth or sincere. Good Salespeople learn to be assertive, but not pushy. They learn to lead the conversation, but not scare people off. And most importantly, besides being a good talker, and a great listener, they have to close the sale!
Closing the Sale is what takes talent and dedication. You can't give up. People will say NO, over and over again. (At least 8 times!) It's your job to get them to say YES! Overcoming objections comes with practice, training, and knowledge. The more you know about Diamonds, Gold, Jewelry, Guarantees, Policies and Financing, the better.
Financing? You bet ya! Whether it be 90 days same as cash, 12 Months interest free, or even just a layaway plan, you have to find the best payment that works for your customer. It goes hand in hand with sales.
But before you get the sale... You have to overcome the biggest obstacle... Read on...
