sample guilt

“smallest crumb” lol – it sounds like that was a waste of time then.

^^ Yes, Lush are one of the few companies that has a good attitude towards giving samples out.

you reckon? I purchased heaps of stuff from a lush store a few months ago and when I asked for a sample of something too they gave me the smallest crumb I have ever seen in my life of product, it was ridiculous!

^^ Yes, Lush are one of the few companies that has a good attitude towards giving samples out.

The only company that I bother to ask for samples for is Lush. That’s because the staff are always so friendly and give samples with most purchases even if you don’t ask. I’ve gotten heaps of samples for products that I hadn’t even thought of buying and as a result, i’ve considered buying the full size product.

Otherwise I only request samples online for products that i’m actually interested in purchasing in the future if they live up to the claims (which i’ve done many times).

I have never even bothered asking for samples and never will, the counters always look so intimidating, you always get so pushed to buy products, and after hearing about so many horror stories it makes me so much more hesitant to get the courage.

same:(

I do find that some people just get samples because its free and I feel bad for companies forking out hundreds of thousands of dollars on skin care etc 🙁

I have never even bothered asking for samples and never will, the counters always look so intimidating, you always get so pushed to buy products, and after hearing about so many horror stories it makes me so much more hesitant to get the courage.

Having just returned from a trip to the US, I find shopping such a depressing experience in Australia.

Today I made four purchases at my local Westfield and each time the sales assistant acted like they were doing me a big favour by putting through the transaction, with absolute no eye contact, let alone a smile.

In contrast, in the US, I was showered with samples even with the smallest of purchases. Bigger purchases came with loads of deluxe-size samples catered for my needs plus travel-size miniatures of my purchases as an added bonus.

I never feel bad asking for samples – some fragrances in cosmetics irritate my skin so I’m not taking any chances – but half the time there aren’t even any staff available at the counters in David Jones.

I’m planning to take a few tiny sample pots shopping with me next time I go into Myer and DJs. I get so tired of being told there either aren’t any samples made for that product (when I’ve seen people on BH talking about their samples) or that there aren’t any left (and you see the next customer get given the sample you requested). Next time, if there are no samples, I’ll just help myself to a few generous squirts from the testers. I refuse to be forced into buying the wrong shade or formula because the shop lighting is awful and they won’t give out samples. I’m not backward in reminding rude staff that in these modern times, word of mouth travels further and faster than ever before, whether it be good or bad.

Oh yeah, I know exactly how you feel and it’s always the more “mature” ladies that seem to kick up a fuss and peer over the top of their glasses disapprovingly. The samples are there to be SAMPLED so that if we like it we can come back and buy the full size. I find I am much more likely to make a purchase if I have been able to test it first especially with things like foundation as more often than not the artificial light inside doesn’t give a true indication of whether the shade will suit or not.

Does anyone feel bad/guilty/awkward asking for samples? I always feel like that- I feel like they’re giving me that look that says ‘you’re not going to buy anything- you just want free stuff’.
I always go to the same david jones. Im really reluctant to ask for some sort of sample too often- for fear as being recognised as the sample girl.
The other day I went in to get a lancome mascara sample and the lady said I needed to get a consultation before I got the mascara. I agreed because I thought it would take 2mins- instead she spent an hour giving me a makeover and explaing the products she used. At the end of it she asked if I wanted to buy anything to which I said no and asked for the sample. I know- how shameless of me, but I didnt need another foundation, concealer, eyeliner, etc for the moment- althought i did really like some of their products and might get them in the future.
wow- it felt good to get that off my chest.
anyone else feel the guilt?

I must say I do get sample guilt too! As much as I love them I do get a bit embarrased and don’t liek visiting counters when there is the same BA on. Some BA’s give mega attitude when asking for samples too which makes me feel horrible.

I think counter BA’s need to be better informed (where possible) of sample promos and also the counters need adequate stock levels. Samples are key to sales and people are sooooo much more likely to try something if they have had an adeuate chance to try a product.

Also, I think counters should have more readily available sample containers (like MAC and origins) so that we can request to try products. These days people are becomming more savvy and like to reasearch things before jumping into a purchase. especially after the GFC we need to be sure something works for us before parting with funds