Ron - what a great story. I think she CAN handle the harsh rejection of a lei salesgirl BECAUSE her mother shared with her the stories about you and your books. It was a strange coincidence that you were there at that time in her life and talked to her. You probably brought back some great memories of her mother and an important gift that her mother shared with her. What more could you have done for her?

Right out of college in NO way shape or form did I consider myself a salesperson (some might still not consider me much of one :). During an interview as a Programmer, the man that would soon become my boss saw that trait in me. I only worked as a salesperson for him for six months (not his fault) but I occassionally remember him and the impact he had on me - seeing the trait of a salesperson in me. I wish I could share that with him today. That change in my perception of myself had a major impact on my life and career. So many times I hear outgoing, well-spoken people say “I am no salesperson” as if it is a scarlett letter or something. Beiing introduced to the profession and professionally trained in it (and inspired that it is an honorable profession) is so important. Ron - I constantly admire you for what you do.

She can also warm up the conversation by saying that she heard a great quote, joke and I am anxious to share it. Ask them what they think of it. (She could hang a sign from her other sign that reads “Roses for Sale, Jokes and Quotes, Lyrics, Poems and Personality Free) Would you like to hear it. Then you keep going until they buy a rose to get you to leave. They were then uniquely entertained, you have built up a rapport, and perhaps customers would have something extra to look forward to for the same price. Make the little tags and get the quotes yourself, write them in longhand with pretty colored ink on the inside white part of pretty wrapping paper, then attached with ribbons.

Women dining alone or without men or girls out with their friends is also a market I would somehow tap into with great tips, recipes, jokes, comments, something to entertain and make them laugh, and keep asking you to come back for more. I would buy myself a rose in a heartbeat if someone offered to make conversation with me and had a great little something extra with that flower, something to lift my spirits, perhaps a little prayer, or a few words of comfort and peace, even a nice scripture or saying philosopical saying. Why do you think fortune cookies are so popular? People love to be given something to ponder. Ponder a way to make more money. Think you much you can learn by doing research.