We’re probably all falling into a bit of a rut as we head into the second year of the pandemic.  And really, February and March aren’t very exciting months for most retailers under the best of circumstances, especially in the colder climates. So over the next four weeks, I encourage you to participate in my 30 Day Challenge for Retailers.

Every Monday, I’ll provide a list of seven potential activities.  Feel free to mix up the order, or to print them out and draw one out of a hat each morning. I encourage you (and your staff) to add some of your own.  Let’s use these 30 days to make our stores and our lives better than when we started!  

1. Take a look at your store packaging.  Is there room for improvement in your branding? Are there odds and ends of old packaging in your store room that could get recycled?

2. Treat your staff to an unexpected treat, and include a note letting them know that you appreciate all they do. 

3. Take a break to go for a walk around your shop’s neighborhood or mall. As you get return, notice what customers see when they approach and enter your store’s front door.

4. Start planning a special event for the fall, when we all hope that COVID restrictions will be largely lifted.

5.  Post a group of six photos on social media of items that only have one thing in common, such as their color.  Add a witty caption, and a link to your website if you’re selling online.

6.  Buy a flowering plant for your desk or checkout counter.  Don’t forget to water it!

7.  Contact a non-profit that you admire and ask if there is anything you can do to help them – for example putting a display in your window about their work, or offering a percentage of sales on certain items during the coming month.

As you meet these small challenges, keep in mind the quote (often attributed to Buddha, although he apparently never said it):  “One moment can change a day, one day can change a life, and one life can change the world.”

Happy Retailing,

Carol “Orange” Schroeder