I was a car salesman for 3 years back in the 70’s. Very few of the salesmen I worked with had any product knowledge and nearly all had issues not only with dealing with woman but also dealing with minorities. I not only knew my product but I was fortunate in not having stupid biases towards people and know for certain that I made a lot of sales to both woman and minorities by keeping one thing in mind. Treat the customer as I’d like to be treated if was I the customer. I wasn’t the best sales closer in the dealership but I was number one in referrals and repeat customers.
My best advice for women is, don’t think of yourself as a victim! Know the product you’re looking to buy, because typically the salesman is clueless. I’ve found the best way to deal with clueless salesman is to go along with them and give them the rope to hang themselves, then go to management and demand a knowledgeable salesman and make it clear you’ll not tolerate any more BS.
As far as woman purchasers, my daughter has a psychology degree, an engineer’s brain and a type A personality. Somewhere along the way in her career she became a media buyer for a large advertising agency. She’s in charge of multi-million dollar advertising media purchases. Her nickname at the agency (and probably from those she buys from) is “The Hammer”. One salesman took her out on a business dinner and during the dinner he drank too much and made all sorts of outlandish promises. My daughter took written notes of the conversation and had him sign it when the meal/meeting was over. You can be sure that he kept all his promises at contract signing time! I know it cost the guy a lot in commissions but he took my daughter very seriously after that.
I’m very proud of both of my kids, but particularly my daughter and her ability to thrive in the business world!