Summer Activity

BY Jackie Bueg

The good news about summer if you've been in business for a while is you can anticipate your traffic flow.  So, are you a vacation local or summer favorite spot?  Or does everyone leave town till school starts back up?  Here are some tips to keep in mind that can help not only with summer but also ease you into the 4th quarter.

If an increase in temperature brings an increase in customers - celebrate!  Add some extra temporary staff to make sure your customers are well taken care of, and your product gets promoted well.  We all know summer isn't without a few rainy days.  Take advantage of any staff member who likes social media and have them post about your newest items.  Also, keep a running list of "Anyone Can Do This" tasks for any time there is a lull in traffic.  What a great way to keep shelves clean and full. If you put approximately how long it will take, staff can judge what item they can finish and be able to add a date completed.  Also, have someone check the dates on the stock to make sure every item is moving out the door.  I was once told, "It's a store, not a museum."  Make room for those great holiday items that will soon be shipping.

Now then if an increase in temperature brings a decrease in customers - breathe a sigh of relief! I know it sounds crazy, but now is the perfect time to get old inventory ready for a Sidewalk Sale, Christmas in July, or Back to School Bash.  Then start bringing in those holiday items that require a little extra.  You know the ones I'm talking about. The case of 24 ornaments that must be priced individually.  Maybe you pre-wrap certain items, like those that would make great teacher gifts.  It's the perfect time to get those wrapped and ready for display. Finally, plan any future social media campaigns.  If you have the chance, prerecord a few and schedule them.

Most importantly – Be with your family, stay hydrated, and laugh a lot.