- August 10, 2018
Building Relationships in Stores
Want to earn more work and eliminate gaps in your schedule? Have you ever wondered why certain teams are requested by name? Some stores go so far as to hold their product in the back room for up to two months until the team of their choosing is available. Why is this? And what can you do differently to make this happen for yourself?
The way field personnel represent themselves and TouchPoint360 in stores is the key to building good rapports with our clients. A good impression can be the difference between a happy, repeat customer who wants you to do their next job and a bad reputation.
Many of our team members have unique qualities that help them succeed in dealing with store owners and management. Some have a great sense of humor. Some have a knack for the spoken word. Others possess the ability to put people at ease by projecting an air of confidence. Almost all retailers will respond well to one or all of these attributes. However, not everyone has these talents, but that’s okay. Let’s talk about simple practices that can help you be more successful and have stores request your return. These all require no specific talent other than your own dedication.
*Be on time. This gives a great first impression and lets the retailer know that you believe their time is as important as yours. Set your alarm and give yourself plenty of time to get to the store at the agreed upon start time.
*Have a good work ethic. While at the job, make working your priority. There will be plenty of time after work for personal tasks. While in the store, complete the work you are assigned.
*Give your best effort. There are many levels of talent on our teams, from beginner merchandiser to seasoned expert. No matter your position on the team or your level of experience, always give your best. It will be noticed by both the store and your teammates.
*Use appropriate and positive body language. This one can take some practice. Always look at someone when you are speaking with them. Show interest and attentiveness while listening. Give a firm handshake. Most people pay attention to how you present yourself, what you say, and what you do.
*Show enthusiasm, energy, a positive attitude, and passion. Along with body language, just being upbeat and positive can relay a sense of professionalism and confidence. If you come across excited to be in stores and eager to help them improve their business, they will see you as an asset. People want to be around positive people.
*Be coachable. This relates to not only the lead/ team relationship, but also to the store/reset team relationship. Be open to new suggestions and specific store needs. We may be the reset experts, but what works in one store may not work in another. Make sure you are flexible enough to know that a store’s needs and wants are paramount. If you can give the store what they want, they will want you back. To them you are the team that understands their vision.
*Do a little extra. Going above and beyond what is expected is the easiest way to set your team apart from the rest of the pack. Go the extra step. Make yourself stand out, and the store will remember you.
*Be prepared. Have your POGs. Have your basic tools, tape, and markers. Have a game plan. Know what fixtures you will require and be proactive. There is nothing that will put a store at ease more than seeing that you are prepared. This will give them confidence in your abilities and let them know that you are competent and ready before you have even started.
These eight traits are available to any employee, regardless of skill level or experience. Learn them and use them, and you will be requested back by any retailer you visit.