Think for a moment about your own shopping experiences. When you’ve walked into a store and heard a salesperson say hello, you probably felt welcomed. That warm welcome may have even encouraged you to make a purchase because you felt comfortable and valued!
Greeting your potential customers in the same manner not only allows you to appear friendly and appreciative of their business, but also gives your staff the opportunity to direct shoppers to the items that they may be most interested in purchasing.
Adopting consistent meet-and-greet practices isn’t just about sales, however. It’s also a smart security technique that you can use to help prevent theft.
A Quick Hello
Say hello to every customer who enters your doors and make direct eye contact. Even if you’re busy with another guest, you should still go out of your way to offer a quick and friendly greeting. This immediate acknowledgment could be enough to tell any potential thief that your staff is alert and attentive, making your store a “hard target” against jewelry crime.
Ask Questions
Greet guests by asking them about the person for whom they’re shopping and whether there is a special occasion. Offer to show some interesting pieces of jewelry to help commemorate that occasion.
Anyone who enters your store should have a legitimate reason for doing so, whether it’s looking for an engagement ring or shopping for a Mother’s Day gift. If someone doesn’t have an answer to your inquiry, he or she could be casing your business.
Watch for Red Flags
Take note of anyone wearing sunglasses, hats, hoodies, baggy garments, or clothing that doesn’t seem appropriate for the season. These items may help to conceal that person’s physical appearance or identity.
Be cautious of anyone using a cell phone while in your premises. They could be communicating about your business’s security and staffing with an accomplice who is outside the building.
Be wary of anyone carrying a jacket, shopping bags, a large handbag, or a backpack. These items could be used to block your view and conceal a theft.
Three's a Crowd
People rarely shop for jewelry in large groups. Pay extra attention to groups of three or more. Those individuals could be casing your business or working together to commit a distraction or sneak theft.
To protect your business, always keep your cases locked, show only one item at a time, wait on only one customer at a time, and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
