How to Sell Cosmetics at a Department Store

Cosmetics are a huge moneymaker for department stores around the world. They are placed front and center in most stores, so everyone walking in will walk by the cosmetics counter. Each of those people is a potential customer, and it's your job to sell them the perfect package for all their cosmetic needs. Strictly speaking, no one actually needs cosmetics, so it could be a tougher sell than you first think. With some confidence and a few tried and true methods, you'll be selling cosmetics in no time.


Smile. As with all sales, being friendly is important for establishing rapport with a prospect. Nothing says "friendly" like a warm smile.


Be assertive. When a prospect enters the store, make eye contact, and greet the person without hesitation.


Offer an appropriate product. After sizing up the prospect to determine what they might be interested in, offer a sample of the product you selected. Women may be interested in trying lipsticks or foundation, while men may be interested in cologne or moisturizer.


Follow up. Often prospects will try to shrink away from your pitch, but try one more time to persuade them to at least try what you're offering. Once a person has tried, they are far more likely to buy. If they turn you down, you might try phrases like "Ah, but I think you'll love it!" or "I'll only take a moment, it'll be great!" If they don't seem interested in the specific product, have an alternative ready at hand.


  • You are your own best advertisement. Use whatever cosmetics you are selling as a life demonstration of how fabulous a person can look when they choose your products.


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