How should an associate handle ordering shoes that are not in stock?

Suggesting a similar shoe to the customer is an effective way to provide immediate value and maintain customer satisfaction. When an associate encounters a situation where a desired shoe is out of stock, offering a similar alternative can help meet the customer's needs and preferences without requiring them to wait. This approach demonstrates a proactive attitude and commitment to customer service, as it allows the associate to keep the sales process moving and potentially finalize a sale with a shoe that the customer may find appealing.

Offering an immediate refund may not be the best course of action unless the customer specifically requests it, as it can lead to lost sales and may not leave the customer feeling satisfied with their shopping experience. Requesting the customer to come back later can be inconvenient and may risk losing the sale altogether, as customers may choose to shop elsewhere. Only ordering when the customer insists might delay the process and overlook other opportunities to meet their needs with a similar product.