Perfume and Me: Do You Actually Work Here?

“Er…well, no. But I should.”

Why I have never worked in a perfume department I have no idea. I’d be brilliant. And it’s not often I say that about myself. But give me a 20-30-something male or female and I’d find them at least three new fragrances they like. I can back this up.

Walking through a department store, stopping to have a quick spray myself, I spot a young dad, with his son, deliberating over which aftershave to buy.  “Which one do you think I should get?” he asks his 4-year old. Whoa, step aside little boy! All but elbowing the child out of the way, there I am at daddy’s side ready to offer my advice, wanted or not.

Luckily, he liked my recommendation and off he went to pay. But before he went, he looked at me, and asked, “Do you actually work here?” “Er, no,” I replied slightly sheepish, suddenly feeling like he’s looking round for my carer. “Well, I think you should, you know what you’re talking about.” Phew.