By
Bob Phibbs
I hear one phrase from retailers repeated over and over again:
"I just need to attract more customers."
Heard it before the last recession ...
Heard it after ...
Heard it during the holidays ...
Heard it throughout the pandemic ...
Still hearing it ...
So here's the blunt truth brick and mortar retailers:
These are the seven reasons why retail competition has more business than you
1. They hire better people
It is next to impossible to train someone who really doesn't like people to begin with. Hire better. Your competitors do.
2. Their merchandise or service stands apart from their competition
Whether it is the boutique that carries only locally sourced jewelry or the dry cleaner that fixes a zipper you didn’t know was broken. Your competitors may be doing something you don't.
What can you do to top them?
3. They solve customers' problems
The retail competition knows their products are better and can tell their customers in a way that doesn't trip their idiot switch. Commit to retail sales training that covers more than product features.
4. They have a good website
The retail competition has invested in creating a slick modern website and understands the basic keywords that drive online traffic to their doors. Revamp your website.
5. They don't mass discount out of desperation
The retail competition has given up mass couponing and only reward those on their email or other lists. Build your email list to retain those who have already shopped with you.
6. They try new things
Remember how powerful collaborating with other retailers can be. Don't ever be afraid to try new marketing practices - even if it is something you might not use yourself.
You can search for all kinds of ideas right here on this blog.
7. They don't compare themselves to others
The retailers you compete with hold themselves accountable for their actions, for their choices in products, and for the people they employ.
So quit reading this now, hang up the phone or get off Facebook and help the customer in front of you.
See also: Retail Sales Tip: Discover 5 Keys Of Your Competition
Get ahead of the retail competition
Tired of hating your competition?
Then do something about it.
Use the seven tips above to improve your store and sales strategy. But most of all, train your staff, so they can realize their maximum potential and get you those sales.
Take my free 5-part email course to learn how your retail store can outsell any online retailer. You can start your first lesson by entering your name and email address below ...
