Retail isn?t any easy business. It requires hard work and long hours. The work feels like it?s never done and don?t forget, the customer?s always right.
Running a business has its ups and downs, but there are fun times too. It goes much smoother when there are processes and procedures in place. Learn easy ways to make your shop more appealing to the customer and watch it thrive.
Stock the Right Items
There?s nothing more frustrating than walking into a store and them not having the item you need. This is especially true if it?s something that?s in demand or that you assume this type of store should carry. As the shop owner, you not only want to order products so that they arrive on time, but you want to order the right items. Customers are either entering your store to shop, browse or buy, so there?s no reason you shouldn?t have what they?re looking for when they?re in your store. If you?re out of stock, then go out of your way to make sure it?ll be shipped to them.
Organize & Keep Tidy
A messy store is a huge turnoff for any customer. Not being able to locate what they came in to buy is frustrating and they?ll leave. It?s important to have the store neatly organized and always clean. There?s no excuse for letting it go. If you need to stay late or hire more help, then do it. You risk losing sales if you don?t keep up.
Offer Special Treats or Surprises
Why not surprise your guests when they enter your store with a new food service item or a hot cup of coffee. Surprise them with new products and store offerings. Putting your customer in a good mood before they shop is a smart play on your part. Invite them in to stay awhile and make each person feel comfortable.
Always Greet the Customer & Smile
Acknowledge every person who comes through your door. The ones you don?t will notice and feel like no one cares that they?re present and leave. Not only greet the customers, but do so with a smile. This is true for when they come through the front door or are browsing around the store. Ask them if they need help and let them know you?re around if they do.
Review the Products with them
Not everyone who walks through your doors will know everything about gardening. Even if they do, they may have never been in your store. Offer your assistance by reviewing products with your customers. Bingo Blooms is a great way to review flowers online, but someone in your store may want you to walk them through exactly what the flowers look like in person. This type of detail is much appreciated as someone is shopping and trying to decide between items.
Build Relationships
If someone enters your store, it?s very possible they?ll be back to shop again. That is if they had a pleasant experience the first time. Build relationships and be sure you say thank you to everyone who enters and leaves your store. Let your customers know you appreciate their business and that you hope they return soon. These little gestures go a long way and you?ll most likely see them back in the near future.
Conclusion
Working retail is challenging and takes effort. These tips are easy ways to make your shop more appealing to the customer to keep them coming back. It?s a tough job, so don?t give up. Keep trying and perfecting the small details.
