Nov. 3-9
REPUTATION Look for places you can ask for reviews via QR codes, like your business cards or in-store signage. According to Bizrate, 91% of consumers read at least one review before making a purchasing decision.
CHORES You and your staff should start soon on your own holiday shopping to get it out of the way. Have business cards for your store handy so you can hand them out to the people you meet.
Nov. 10-16
MARKETING Post your advertising schedule in the back room. Make sure your staff is fully aware of what promotions will run when.
MARKETING Prepare an editorial calendar for your blog and other social media channels. Aim to post something new every day, be it a blog, Facebook comment or new video. It will all help increase your website’s SEO at the time of year when people are scouring the internet for gift ideas.
MARKETING Invite some local fashion bloggers in to come and play with your holiday inventory or just to learn about a recent technological advance in vision.
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Nov. 17-23
MARKETING It’s high season for functions. Accept all invitations to parties, Chamber of Commerce events, neighborhood fundraisers, open houses and mixers. Check your stock of business cards. What compelling offers do these little billboards make? Volunteer to be a speaker to talk about what your business has to offer.
MARKETING Record a new message for your telephone to reflect the holiday season. Don’t forget to mention flex-dollar promotions and gift cards. If you’re selling gift cards on your website, tell customers they can do their holiday shopping with you 24/7.
Nov. 24-30
OPERATIONS Meetings get a bad rap but done well they can ensure everyone is on the same page and up-to-date with store policy, promotions, inventory and equipment. In fact, why not invite a vendor in to lead a meeting with a focus on getting the most out of those fancy tools you’ve installed.
STAFF Celebrate your team. The fourth quarter is exhausting, and it’s common for retail and service workers to burn out. “It’s time to turn up your communication,” says business coach Candace D’Agnolo. “Engage positively, listen, and ask questions to help your staff feel heard, confident and part of the team.” And if you don’t already, consider giving bonuses.
BACK ROOM Stock the store fridge with healthy, quick-to-eat items for when you only have time to grab a hurried bite between customers. Make sure the coffee pot is working perfectly and you are stocked with coffee, creamer, etc.
