The holiday season has officially begun! Party plans are under way, holiday tunes are in the air and shoppers are out in force, searching high and low for the perfect presents and treats. The good news for Sales Advisors is that a recent National Retail Federation survey showed that over 50 percent of consumers plan to scope out grocery stores for gifts and supplies this holiday season. That means the opportunity is ripe to step up as a helpful elf for your customers this year—and reap the benefits of increased sales in the process.
As online shopping continues to grow in leaps and bounds, personalization has become the name of the game. This year, that goes for brick-and-mortar retailers, too. As a Sales Advisor working with customers every day, you have a great opportunity to offer shoppers that individualized recommendation they crave.
The first step is to engage shoppers by asking them questions about their holiday plans. Ask what they’re shopping for today and what they still have left on their gift lists. Make it a friendly conversation by sharing some of your holiday own plans, too.
Once you get an idea for your customers’ plans, then you can help them see how your products might fit in. The keys here are to know your products and your selling points well. Is your customer planning a holiday cookie exchange? Tell him or her how the ready-to-bake cookie dough you’re sampling can be dusted with colored sugar or frosted for a fun and unique look. If a customer seems pressed for time, play up the convenience factors, such as how quick the product is to prepare or how it simplifies cleanup.
Encourage shoppers to get creative with their gift giving, too. Why go to the mall, when there’s a wealth of goodies right where they are? If you’re sampling wine, suggest pairing it with some crackers and cheese for a thoughtful hostess gift. Or help shoppers come up with gift basket ideas (think themes—movie lovers, chocolate lovers, etc.). Pull in ideas from around the store, and watch your customers’ eyes light up with thanks!