So what if it is their job? It's not out of maliciousness, it is from a place of kindness even if it means they get paid to do it. That requires a "thanks" after the no. If you don't feel you can have a conversation because you're too busy declining the offer, why not continue your conversation and pretend like you didn't hear them?
I don't see it as kindness if it's unsolicited. I mean, yeah, if I voluntarily go to a restaurant and have a server, I should say thank you to him/her. But if someone randomly waylays me while I'm trying to get from point A to point B, I don't think it's out of kindness. I actually think it's a rude policy. Double that if they try to put the product (spray perfume, lotion squirt, etc.) on you without even getting your permission first.
I do not condone putting the product on your without your permission. In fact, even the thought is making me have a very angry reaction to someone doing that.
I do see the unsolicited as coming from a place of kindness, not necessarily a kindness itself. I see, however, that you think that is a rude policy overall and I do not. That could be the cause of us seeing those differently.
I guess what isn't computing in my head is "place of kindness" vs. "kindness." How do they differ?
When I talk about the rude salespeople, I think you may be picturing just a normal "Can I help you find anything" as you walk around a store. Around here we have these lotion kiosk people who ask repeatedly even after getting a no, and will try to actually squirt it on you if you get too close. I think it's inherently rude. I think the reason I still say "no thanks" most of the time is because I know the low-wage employee at the kiosk didn't set the policy and the bulk of the blame is further up the ladder, but I don't see kindness in it at all.
No, I was picturing the people at the kiosk, too. Squirting it at me would get a very, very bad reaction. Offering to let me try it, on the other hand, would get a, "No, thanks."
A place of kindness, to me, is without the intent to harm, without nefarious intent. Kindness is actually going out of the way to be nice to someone.
A place of kindness: Would you like to try our new #1 combo?
Kindness: Would you like this seat? I'll stand so you can rest your feet.