One of my favorite articles for New Age retailers suggested starting the day by smudging the store, and burning a candle with a slip of paper under it listing the day’s sales goals. Although these are not traditional approaches, I appreciate the fact that they acknowledge that preparing to unlock the door in the morning requires certain rituals and practices.

Getting the day off to a good start requires having the staff and supplies at the ready. Make sure that employees know that their shift starts at least 15 minutes before the doors open.  During that time they should:

1.Check to make sure the store is tidy and the bathroom clean.

2.Recount the money in the till to make sure that an error wasn’t made at closing.

3.Restock supplies such as boxes and bags.

4.Walk through the store to check on new arrivals and to make sure that all displays are neat and well stocked.

5.Look over any notes or lists about what needs doing during the day, especially if there is an event or sale going on. Some stores like to have a brief staff meeting before opening up in order to let everyone know what is happening, and to give them a pep talk for the coming day.

One opening up ritual that is often overlooked is going to the front of the store to make sure that everything looks perfect for arriving customers. This is especially true if staff enter through the back, so they may not notice fingerprints on the front door or a crooked welcome mat.

Getting the day off to a good start is a bit like eating breakfast: it gives you the energy to really get going. It also sets a positive tone for both staff and customers, which is important for the success of your shop.

Happy Retailing,

Carol “Orange” Schroeder