I entered the store just to buy a shirt, maybe two. I’m the kind of customer who knows what he wants, so I come in, buy what I want, and leave.

But the badgering sales assistant kept asking me, “Don’t you want to take a pair of pants too?” No, thank you. “Maybe a pair of jeans?” No, no. “Let me show you these new shirts that arrived this week, they’re beautiful.” I’m already taking two. “And shoes? Look at these shoes… And those socks…” Arrgh! Lord, grant me patience!

And when I made the mistake of mentioning that I travel a lot, she said: “Let me show you a suitcase…” I almost asked her if they sold “cluelessness” at the store too, as she showed plenty, but I thought she would not understand the question.

Don’t get me wrong, I admire the chutzpah. I also understand she needs the commission. But all she achieved through her insistence was making me think twice if I should ever go back there. She didn’t increase her commission today, and probably won’t get repeat sales from me in the future.

Jesus said: They assume that for their much speaking they will be heard. Matthew 6:7

Not even God can stand blabbermouths. Husbands can’t take wives who talk too much. Children cover their ears when their parents start lecturing. Employees get tired of management’s empty words.

If you want to be heard:

1. Make it short
2. Make it clear
3. Speak with conviction
4. Speak only when necessary

Then, when you open your mouth, you will command much more attention.