Positive Impressions in Two Ways in Retail Stores

Two chains new in the area are using excellent techniques to create positive impressions on customers.

One technique, used by the new MacAuthority, is to know other nearby stores who carry related products that customers may ask for, which MacAuthority does not carry. The staff at MacAuthority appears very knowledgeable about products when they can do that. Another new store, EarthFare, promotes a positive experience by offering many food samples and encouraging customers to try these items. Obviously they want customers to stay longer in the store, and buy some new items. Whether through referrals, enthusiastic smiles, pleasant smells and wonderful tastes, or generally appearing eager - not just barely willing - to serve the customers, these stores are using some effective strategies to create positive impressions!

Well-trained entry-level staff make a difference!

Yesterday I stepped into a drugstore chain, and was quite surprised at the well-trained young workers there. When I went to the cosmetics counter and asked for a kit of grooming products,
the young woman regretfully shook her head and said the store did not carry one. However, she walked me to the various aisles and showed me the components I needed. Then, at the pharmacy counter, a "pharmacy cashier" located my prescription, took my money, and smiled as he thanked me by name.

Do these techniques make customers decide to return there for future purchases? Yes they do, and the young workers learn to take pride in their well-learned skills.

What has your best buying experience been, and how did the staff's customer service skills play a part?