In Store Shopping, It's Simply What They Want

Many customers and manufacturers still prefer the in-store experience, even with today’s online shopping explosion. In store shopping has a personal touch that these customers like. You can capitalize on the wants, needs and expectations that in store shopping fulfills and close sales that might have otherwise been lost by using online sales.

Giving Shoppers What They Want

Some of the expectations of shoppers when purchasing merchandize in store are competitive pricing and great promotions. This combination exerts an influence on purchasing decisions across the entire demographic segment of shoppers. But shoppers also expect basic retail execution, clear information about the products, and a large assortment of choices when they enter your store. They want your sales associates to know and understand your products and services. They want to be served by salespeople who have accurate information about the products. Remember that customers don’t want to be hassled while shopping; instead they want knowledgeable assistance when they ask for it. Your customers also desire convenience. They expect merchandise that is well organized, easily found and attractively displayed. The easier you make your shop for the patrons’ experiences, the more likely you’ll have returning customers.

What Customers Don’t Want

Customers don’t want to be delayed while in the checkout line. They want the checkout to go smoothly and efficiently. They don’t appreciate sales associates’ attempts to gather information or the hard sell of additional products to them while they’re checking out. Another turn-off is how you handle your return policy. There is a need for balance between your retail-customer relationship and your profits. A simple and easy return policy will make shoppers more willing to buy your merchandise. If shoppers feel that there will be problems returning merchandise, they may decide that buying at your store just isn’t worth it. You just lost some “Ca-Ching’s” at your cash registers.

The basics are also extremely important to older shoppers. Today’s “Can I help you buddy” sales conversation is a put off to them. If they perceive that a salesperson is disrespectful, even if unintentional, you will lose sales. You must be aware of how your salespeople treat your customers at all times. Your sales staff should value the customer over the sales that they can make. This isn’t charity, it is thoughtfulness. Customers who are unhappy from shopping at your store or feel that they have been treated rudely will not be returning and they, in turn, will tell their family and friends about their unhappy experience

Keep Them Coming

You can keep your customers coming again by being mindful of their gender, ages and incomes when selecting products. To have the return shopper, a pleasant interaction with salespeople and the shop patron’s want of valued products with you regularly adding fresh spins on the in-store experience will let the shopper feel great satisfaction. This will gain you assertive shoppers because of their comfort with your store who will be ready to buy, and they will expect you to be ready for them. By focusing on their likes and caring about dislikes, you will keep your target customers in mind when you display merchandise. If in store buyers aren’t able to locate what they are looking for, they will go elsewhere.

By your appreciation of your customers when ordering your merchandise and by making their shopping experiences enjoyable, customers will return. By making your sales staff aware that the customer is more important than the sale, you will be a success. It is simple, but simplicity in sales sells.

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