I used to sell knives.
And if you know me very well, you would know how ironic that statement is. You see, I'm more likely to accidentally cut or stab myself with a knife than use it properly. No, I'm quite serious about that. I'm a bit clumsy, especially when it comes to knives.
Yet, I needed a summer job before I was going away to college. I'd just finished my second year of community college at the time, and then I was off to Missouri for my bachelors. So a little extra money would be a good thing, right?
I found the ad in the newspaper. I could make over $15 per appointment. Sounded awesome, right? Eh, not so much. I went for the interview and got in. I think they took just about everyone, and the job had a high turn-over rate. But I got the job, and then I would have training.
Yeah, we had to purchase our own training kit. Ugh. My parents bought it for me, since I had no money (hence the need for the job). I think training lasted for two days. We had our scripts of what we were supposed to say to prospective buyers as well as tested the knives. The kitchen knives really are awesome! Top of the line, and we've still been using them since 2002 with no need to sharpen them or anything like that.
But I soon discovered selling knives really wasn't my calling.
In fact, I nearly had panic attacks over telephoning people to ask for an appointment.
The actual appointments went well. I had a nice time, but I couldn't force myself to be pushy either. I knew the knives were a bit pricey, and I wouldn't guilt people into purchasing them. So I gave my spiel, showed off my wares, and then if they weren't interested, I said, "Okay. Thanks anyway!" and left.
I don't believe you have to be pushy to sell an item. Still don't.
I think the job cost me more than I made in the end too. But I can say I had a brief occupation as a knife seller.
I think I'll stick with being a writer.
Have you ever had a strange summer job?
