Inglewood's singing saleswoman to perform at Stampede western showcase

Most salespeople have tricks of the trade to seal a deal and stand outfrom the competition.

But NancyLabergemight havethe appliance sales market corneredas Inglewood'sonly singing saleswoman.

"Well for sure I return phone calls, give discounts," Labergetold the Calgary Eyeopener."But I'm a musician so I bring my guitar to work so I play music for clients."

For 16 years,Labergehas worked at the Trail Appliances inInglewoodand has used her original songs to deliver a unique sales experience andhelp relieve some of the pressure while shopping for new appliances.

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"Lots ofpeopleare stressed out whentheyare doing a build or areno,and so Ihave just learned to calm it all down,"Labergesaid. "I say 'Come on, I'm going toplayyou some original material' and I sing to them and I tell them I'm not sellingappliances, I'm selling music."

Along with being a performer,Labergeis also a trained chef and said she prefers a low-pressure sales tactic when dealing with customers.

"Idon't really sell, Ijust educateand people part with their money," Labergesaid.

Wether it's a washingmachine or atoaster, Leberge said there is no minimum purchaserequired for shoppers to get a free, jaunty tune. But her impromptu performances aren't a mandatory part of her sales pitch sheonly playsfor prospective buyers if they are open and willing to listen to a tune.

Idon't really sell, Ijust educateand people part with their money.- Nancy Laberge

Labergesaid being the singing saleswoman has allowed her to merge her passions of performing and working with people. It's also helped her stand out from the crowd.

"You know, people remember me," Laberge said of her unique sales pitch. "People will come intothe store and ask for the lady that sang to them."

Labergewill be takingher concertsout of the showroom and into theCalgary Stampede as part of the Window on the West western showcase.

Laberge will performon Sundayat 6:30 p.m. in the BMO Centre. Ticketsarefree with admission to the Stampede grounds.

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• With files from the Calgary Eyeopener