Enjoy the Differences in Shopping Styles

Shopping — By Shopping Blogs on December 30, 2009 4:44 pm

When it comes to shopping , men and women truly are from different planets! Perhaps a bit of explanation will bring some good-natured fun and understanding to the retail arena! The sexes approach perusing the merchandise, evaluating the options, and making selections in completely different ways. Studies demonstrate repeatedly that while men shop somewhat less frequently than women, when they do shop they spend about the same amount, and often a bit more. But here’s a fact that will surprise no one – men will spend less than half the time in the pursuit of what they want than women will. Yes, we’re being a bit stereotypical, but facts back the profiles on gender-specific traits of shoppers! Women love the hunt; men love the kill!

Walk into a department store or retail outlet, high-end, discount or somewhere in between, and you can easily see the demographic dynamics being played out. Consider a woman approaching a rack full of business-casual tops (which men would NEVER call tops!) For the average woman, let’s call her Jill, every garment is a possibility when shopping. She will typically shop her size and one size up and down, because, after all, manufacturers’ cuts are all slightly different, and besides, those 10-15 pounds are absolutely coming off in the next couple of weeks! Each color or pattern deserves consideration as Jill mentally goes through her wardrobe for complementary pants, skirts, jackets and accessories. She’s mentally crafting a look she wants to display at the upcoming party, next week’s important meeting with a prospective client, or this Friday’s date. She’s taking her time, measuring the qualitative results of each potential choice. And most likely, Jill’s having a wonderful, relaxing time doing it!

If Jill had a friend with her, perhaps a fellow named Jack, he would be near melt-down status after half an hour of this kind of shopping. Or, he would have left 20 minutes ago to have a beer and watch the game at the pub next store! If her were in need of a shirt, his shopping strategy would be night-and-day different. Jack would approach the rack with an exclusive mentality, rather than the inclusive one Jill brought to the hunt. He’d shop his size only. Secondly, Jack knows what colors he likes, usually brown and blue, and maybe green. He’d quickly scan the section without touching a shirt that isn’t the “right” color. Within a few minutes he’d make his choice, pay, and be out the door.

Married or dating? Don’t let shopping together drive you apart. Viva la difference, as they say, and learn to appreciate one another’s approach!

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Tags: Shopping