BY Jackie Bueg

You have a rep appointment, now what? Here are some tips and tricks to get the most out of your visit.

• Have your customer request notebook handy. Multiline reps are a great source to help you find what your customers want.
• Pull your inventory from your POS. If you know the system is not accurate or your staff doesn't always enter the sale correctly, your rep can take the sheet and double-check for you before placing the order.
• Ask your rep about new trends they are seeing at trade shows.
• Tell your rep about new developments in your community. Is there a new dance school down the street? Did the school sports team go to state? What about a new factory or restaurant? All of these can shape your developing customer base.
• Request their line list in advance. This will give you a chance to check if there is anything you MUST see or a sample you want to request be brought along.
• Know your budget and don't be afraid to ask to post-date an order if you want it for a specific holiday or after your inventory count. Reps and vendors love to know what stock to make available down the road.
• If you will be short on time, it is ok to preprint reorders and only look at the new stuff. 
• Don't be afraid to call/text if you need to change the time of the appointment. We all know there are things in business and family beyond our control.