Its a shame the PC sector has followed the same trend as the hi-fi market went many years ago. Being of a technical nature I was employed in the hi-fi industries prior to the advent of PC's.
The man in the street buys one of the myriad of magazines available and then becomes an "expert".
Problem is the big stores only work on a fast movement of stock, with high profits and minimum overheads apply, hence the lower technical quality of sales and support staff, who have this "expert" type of customer to deal with.
It is two sided so I can only suggest more research into different types of supplier for the 1st time purchaser. This requires patience which seems to be a dying virtue these days.
PC world and the like are OK for the occasional "if you know exactly what you want" purchase.
It dont do any harm to give your local retailer a chance. They usually more experienced and helpful for the new user.