I'll give you an example I was in Cardigan the other day and wandered into a shop – there was absolutely nobody there to assist me let alone welcome me. I walked round the shop. I was there browsing for around 3 minutes and then called out. Finally someone came out from the depths of the shop, - no smile no greeting – in fact I was made to feel that I was a nuisance for interrupting them! Did I buy – no I did not! This was pure sabotage of the business. Not sure if it was the owner or the employee – either way they lost my custom!
Contrast this with a visit to another local business Brethyn Cartref. A smiling lady from the mezzanine floor greeted us with a smile as we came in and directed us to where we wanted to be. Gave us time to browse and then offered friendly help and advice – in fact helped us to buy. The result- we bought!
Is it because we think we are pressure selling! Or is it that we are lazy?
People like to buy and they buy more if the experience is a helpful, knowledgeable, happy and dare I say it a fun one
People are buying Christmas Presents at the moment – How can you get them to buy from you? assuming you have managed to attract them into your premises in the first place! (another subject)
Ask questions:
- Have they visited this shop before?
- Are they local? Where have they travelled from?
- Do they know the layout? Be helpful!
- What are they looking for? What do they have in mind?
- Who are they buying for? Is it an adult or child, male or female?
- Guide them to the right area. Let them browse for a while and then offer suggestions.
Know your products and offer a solution….. and gift wrapping?
Upsell!!
Suggestions: Maybe the customer is looking to buy a necklace – well what about the ear-rings or bracelet? Maybe you could give an offer. Buy the necklace and Bracelet and have the ear-rings Free or half price!! Remember its added value and good service! Try these great gift shops Ellianas in Cardigan and Tivy Hall Gifts in Newcastle Emlyn - you will always receive a warm welcome and great service.
The customer is buying some Gardening Tools how about adding some seeds or indeed bulbs.
A great example of upselling.
I was recently in my favourite deli, Naturally Scrumptious looking for a treat for my husband. It was a Thursday and the owner in general conversation asked what I was doing over the weekend. (friendly and interested in me!) I was actually having a dinner party with friends. Well the conversation led to what I was going to serve my guests. I had sorted the starter and main but not the dessert. Well long story short I bought a wonderful Apple cheesecake with advice to add extra flambéed sliced apple just before serving. Great idea. But it didn’t end there –was I serving a cheese course? They suggested the most voluptuous (sounding like Nigella now!) Gorgonzola cheese to be served with a baked fig round. Heaven! Needless to say I happily spent more and my dinner guests thought the dessert and cheese sensational.
If someone walks into your shop – they are looking to buy – help them!