To be a successful retailer, you need to anticipate every move your customers make. This is easier said than done, but there are certain aspects of retail you can bet shoppers will expect. If your store is missing even one of these elements, you’re likely to miss out on sales, so be ready to take whatever measures necessary to make sure your shop is up to snuff.
1. Organized displays
Shoppers who want to dig through disorganized display tables or skirt around overstocked display cases will go to a thrift store. Your shop, however, has to convey an organized and welcoming vibe. This means getting up-to-date store fixtures and putting serious effort into making sure all of your displays are pleasing to the eye and easy to browse.
2. Friendly, attentive staff
Your employees working the store floor are the face of your business. If they look bored as they stand behind the register or haven’t mastered their p’s and q’s, you’re going to lose business. Regular training will help your staff remember how to appropriately service your customers.
3. A way to reach you on the web
A decade ago, you might have been able to get away with only having a brick-and-mortar location, but today, you’ll sink without an Internet presence. Not only do you need an online store or website, but you should also be actively participating in social media campaigns.
4. Strong, unique sales
The economy has been steadily improving over the past few years, but customers still expect to get discounts on the regular. As an independent retailer, they’ll be looking forward to consistent promotions that rival if not beat out those offered by big, corporate stores, including businesses that deal exclusively online.
