Musings

Lets Go Shopping

       Have you ever "shopped" your own business? Are you aware of how your customers are treated, if your products displayed in an appeasing and inviting manor, is your shop warm and welcoming?

       Secretly shopping your own business will open your eyes to all new possibilities.  You do this by having someone pose as a potential customer and come into your store as a regular customer to  assess all of these items: plus more depending on your needs.

       An easy way to create a "secret shopper" program is to contact the marketing department of a local University. A co-op between you will give you the information you need and it will be a good project for a student. Follow up with a referral letter for the student to her/his teacher.  A "win-win" for both of you.

       You may be very surprised at the findings of you "secret shopper".  No longer can you be in denial of the reality of your marketing efforts. You may find that your employees are lazy, your stock is haphazardly displayed, or your restrooms are dirty.  Each problem they find is an opportunity for you to update and make changes to improve your retailing.

       Just having this extra set of eyes can help you keep fresh and relevant for your customers. Because you see it every day you may miss things that your "secret shopper" can see.  Remember that this is what your customer sees; you want it to be fresh and inviting, and calling out to be bought. 

       The better your shop looks, the higher your bottom line.  A clean, well-run store tells your customers that you really care and will do your very best to make their shopping experience rewarding.

Your Money - Your Life

Let's Go Shopping II    

       Now that the shopping season is upon us most of us will be stressing about money, and how little we seem to have. 

       Try shopping through a discount shopping portal.  A site, like eBates offer discounts for anything you buy through their site; signing up is free; they even offer a $5.00 signup  Just choose the store where you want to shop.  You will be taken to their website, but still be linked to eBates  who will send you a check for the amount of the discount. 

       I got a check for $12.00 the first month I used the service.  That's like finding money in the street.  Try it; it's a great way to get extra value for your money. 

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