What the pros say 

"Buyer: choice and negotiation on the program"
Diandra Puy, buyer

Diandra Puy  is a buyer for a carpet store. Based in the U.S. and Canada, the company's main suppliers come directly to the store to present their products. Private importers travel in Europe, Asia and the Middle East to buy the collections from which Diandra makes selections for the store and specific customer requests. "It's quite enjoyable to help customers with their decorating choices; we're selling a bit of happiness,"  she explains.

"Twice a year, a carpet supplier fair is held in Atlanta and Las Vegas. Our buyer goes to at least one of them each year, to check out what's new on the market."

Negotiation is also an important part of the job. Suppliers and buyers have to agree on the products, quantities and especially on price.

"To do this job well, you have to know the market, the products, your customers, be able to negotiate and have an eye for aesthetics. I think you also have to be objective, because we have to put ourselves in the customer's shoes: sometimes we don't personally like the products." Being open minded is therefore one of the keys in this job that allows you to travel while staying at home.