So you think you know a lot about shopping? I found a link to a Psychology of Shopping quiz on a psych site (hey, that rhymes) that may prove otherwise. For somebody who loathes and detests shopping, I did pretty well. I erred on #2 (color) scoring 9 of 10 correctly. What’s your score?
In a manner of speaking, I cheated. Specifically, I’ve read Paco Underhill; retail anthropologist extraordinaire -his books are loaded in my lower right side bar for a reason (everybody should get the answer to the first question). I cannot sufficiently stress the importance of reading his books if you’re in manufacturing or retail. Particularly if you hope to weather the changes that the aging populace of baby boomers will continue to bring to the marketplace. The needs of baby boomers are not static.
Don’t assume these changes won’t affect you because you’re not making clothes or products for this market. Baby boomers will have the pull to alter the standards of the retail environment, so sooner or later, you’ll have to get with the program if you expect to have any longevity. These books will permanently alter your thinking. It’ll give you the insight to know why some stores or products are doomed to fail -and for surprising reasons (like packaging). You shouldn’t be one of them.
Dang! I got a D. It figures. (I live in a shopping mecca and I hate to shop.)
But a “D”? . . . that’s pretty shameful.
As you know I failed miserable. But it was so interesting how the fusion of marketing and psychology were used. Never heard of Paco Underhill, but will now never forget his name.
I was a shop-a-holic up to 3 yrs ago. I took the test with dh and got an F. Iam with Deb never heard of Paco Underhill but will now never forgot his name. Very interesting quiz.
I failed too – but I’m not surprised. By the time I finish reading Kathleen’s book and 2 books by Paco Underhill as well, I should do better – Learning never ends does it! I just need longer days….24 hrs is never enough.
I got an F (I only answered 3 correctly), and there is nobody who loves to shop more. I’m a shopping freak. If I’m not shopping in stores I’m shopping online.
A ‘D’ for me. Now I need to read the books.
Hi – I’m just a home sewer but I love to read the information here.
Now this may be a little off-topic for this discussion thread, but if you want to know how the mental giants at the department stores are treating rich babyboomer customers, take a look at this link.
Basically, they are THROWING AWAY a whole set oc customers. Anybody out there interested creating in boutique lines for well-heeled customers?