In business, we talk a lot about psychology and the importance of treating the customer to a fantastic experience. This is important because, at the end of the day, we rely on customers to sustain our business. Without them, we have no one to sell a product to and we if we don’t make the experience for our customers a great one, then they aren’t likely to ever return. One-time customers are better than nothing, but trying to keep them coming back is a winning strategy that every business should think about.
An online-only business has a much easier time with this. They can focus on excellent customer service, a great looking website and high-quality products to draw customers in and keep their attention. However, in addition to making a website and establishing an online presence, a physical business needs to do a lot more. From the decor down to your front entrance, here are a couple of things to think about if you’re looking to improve customer interaction through the power of a welcoming storefront.
Make Use of Space
If you have a lot of space on your business premises, then make sure you’re making the most of everything. For instance, if you own a restaurant or cafe, then consider setting up tables and chairs outside to let your customers enjoy the weather, and to draw people in because they see your food, drinks and patrons enjoying themselves outside.
Clearly Establish Your Intention
If you sell computers, then put computers in your display window. If you’re a Chinese restaurant, then put Asian-style decorations around your premises. If you don’t clearly display your intentions then you’re going to get confused customers walking in thinking you’re something you’re not.
Repair the Outside
From asphalt paving to fix the cracks and scratches on the floor outside to replacing your cracked window, make sure your storefront is presentable. Even if it’s something that you think is insignificant, such as your sign being slightly tilted to the side or the neon lights being a little dimmer than usual, fix those issues. The last thing you want is for a customer to see your run-down storefront and assume you’re either closed or a dying business.
Smile and Welcome Them
Even if it’s a busy day and you’re frantically trying to serve customers inside of your store, make sure you have someone stationed outside to welcome people in, promote your business and smile as your patrons walk in. A smile makes a big difference; it’s infectious, it makes people happy and it gives your staff an air of confidence. If there’s one thing your customers will remember, it’s the glowing smile and the positive vibes they got from being inside your store.
Don’t Overload Their Senses
Be it clashing colours, loud music or far too much choice on display, you want your customers to feel like they’re in control when they browse your store. Use muted or quiet colours that don’t scream too loudly or draw attention away from your products. Set out some of your best items but don’t fill a shelf with hundreds of choices, and play music that’s subtle enough to add to the ambience, but not enough to distract your customers.
If you get any value from this post be free to comment or share. Also feel free to connect with me on Facebook or Twitter!
text me: +385/9193-55474
email: hrvojeh75@gmail.com
skype: hrvojeh75
Trackbacks/Pingbacks