Another possibility to consider for pleasure or family rides, or for touring is to not use clipless pedals at all, but use either clips (cages), or PowerGrip straps, or even just plain grippy touring or mountain pedals...and then you get to wear comfy normal everyday hiking shoes or hiking boots. For touring, that would mean one less pair of shoes to bring along, too.
I don't compete or care that much about speed and I just love jumping on my bike and doing 20 or 50 miles in my most comfy shoes that I wear every day for walking, hiking, etc. I love my PowerGrip straps- they hold my shoes snuggly on the pedals, but still give me freedom. People have been riding 'epic' journeys across country on their bikes for generations without clipless, after all. Just another option to consider.
Bike shop employees know what they know for their own situations and experiences, but they seldom know everything that might be right for everyone. Plus, they like to sell you stuff.