No need to be rude - just say ‘no, thank you’

Dear Miss Manners: While shopping in the local mall, I am frequently approached by salespersons who insist I stop, speak with them and sample their product. I politely say no and continue on my way.

Often I am approached by the same person multiple times on the same shopping trip. I am tempted to ignore them and continue walking without acknowledging their presence.

After all, they have no interest in me personally but only as a potential “score.” That is demonstrated by their repeated attempts to engage me as though they have never seen me before.

Do you have any advice on the best way to fend off these entreaties? Is this a case where rudeness is acceptable due to the circumstances?

Gentle Reader: There are no cases in which rudeness is acceptable. Miss Manners begs you to cease that line of thought forever.

If that is understood and settled, she will point out that not all human encounters require the same amount of effort. Nobody expects you to stop and inquire after the health of the family of someone who is asking to spray cologne on you in a department store.

“No, thank you” will do the first time, and a simple shake of the head thereafter.