Shopping is one of the most therapeutic things there is. It boosts your serotonin to an almost blissful level even when you’re just window shopping. But shopping adventures can sometimes become uncomfortable or awkward, due to store employees who won’t stop following you or suggesting other items to buy. This was the topic of discussion on one Twitter thread, which zeroed in on the sales workers of Watsons stores. 

Are Watsons sales staff too overbearing?

Anybody who frequents the Internet has probably chuckled at a meme that portrays Watsons as every Filipino’s favorite store for everyday beauty and skincare staples. And with over 900 stores nationwide, we don’t think that’s an unfair assumption. However, many Pinoys find their sales staff a little too eager or aggressive, as evidenced by Twitter users who shared their negative experiences.

“Watsons and their relentless sales ladies are so counter-productive. That’s the only reason why I don’t buy there, plus when I do, I have to be super quick, or else they’ll be following me around or side-eyeing me,” one user wrote. They also said some staff would ignore customers “if you’re not dressed like you have money.” 

The OP clarified that she doesn’t hate the Watsons sales staff, and her tweet doesn’t intend to attack or bash them because she’s only sharing her experience as a customer. 

Netizens look back at their Watsons shopping experiences

It’s the Internet, which means people are more than willing to respond to things they find relatable, and this conversation is no exception. 

Respect has been taught to us ever since we were kids, but in the case of this netizen, it seems the store worker they encountered forgot their basic manners following a rude comment. Yikes!

If that story wasn’t shocking to you, this netizen felt discriminated against after they were followed and kept being asked by the Watsons store workers what they were looking for. “Oh, by the way, I was wearing hijab,” they revealed.

And then some fight for their jobs — quite literally.

Maybe it’s time for some change

Okay, with all the Watsons stories shared, the beauty retailer could use this shopping hack, as suggested by this netizen.

“Can Watsons have the black, red, or no basket policy?” They explained customers carrying black baskets or having none while in the store means they don’t want assistance and want to shop quietly. On the other hand, the red baskets are for those who need help as they shop. 

Some stores overseas do this to prevent the awkward issue of feeling intruded on by sales employees. 

But it seems there’s more to it than what meets the eye

Some netizens think that Watsons sales staff keep an eye out for all customers to prevent shoplifters, and it’s part of the protocol to assist everyone entering the store.

Another one said it’s because they probably work on a commission-based salary and are eager to hit their target sales numbers.

Customer Shopping 101: It’s okay to say no

Stories of customers feeling disturbed or pestered by store workers and their unending product spiels happen all the time. These feelings are valid, okay? But this doesn’t warrant bad or unruly behavior towards them. 

You can respectfully say no to store employees if you prefer to be left alone while getting what you need. But if you already did this, and the store employee won’t stop bothering you, take this tip:

Have you experienced something like this while shopping? 

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