During the busy season, businesses can earn maximum profits… and maximum stress. November and December are the biggest months of the year for almost every retailer because of the holidays, such as: Thanksgiving, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Christmas, New Year’s, and more. While this is great for sales, this is also the time that stress, priorities, and time need to be carefully managed for the health and success of a company. Below are 8 tips for your retail company to prepare for peak season:
Plan in Advance
Although it is impossible to prepare for every situation that may arise, it helps to brainstorm some solutions. This can include creating goals, policies, and practices that keep the business’s priorities on track during the chaos. It may also be helpful to make a list of supplies, staff, and other resources you will need. Can anything in your business be prepared in advance? You will thank yourself for preparing as much as possible during the busiest time of the year.
Put Customers First and Profits Second
It may be tempting to make decisions based on financial factors. However, retailers should make customer experience a prime focus, as they are where revenue comes from. Companies that make it clear that people matter more than money are superior in the hearts of their customers. How will decisions impact your customers? How can your business express its humanity to customers? This can result in higher loyalty, higher value, and (eventually) higher profits for the business.
Hire Staff Strategically and Treat Them Respectfully
Employee satisfaction is just as important as customer satisfaction, as they are a vital strength to the business. Many employees during peak season get worn out and frustrated with the intensity they face at work. It is essential to tell your employees that they have support. This can be provided through assigning a desirable schedule, communicating clearly on what is expected, creating a safe place for them to vent their frustrations, and even hiring part-time or seasonal employees to help with the heavier workloads. What changes can make work more enjoyable for your employees? A happy employee will drastically change the business environment.
Consider Order Fulfillment
In recent years, it has been difficult to receive and send packages in a timely manner. Never wait to order supplies and products you need for fulfillment processes. It is best to order it early and be patient for it to arrive. Also, understand fully the costs and time of shipping your own products. If possible, offer customers different methods to receive their order (buy online-pick up in store, curbside pickup, etc.) Above all, communicate to customers and employees that there may be delays in order fulfillment. How can ordering and shipping go smoothly for your company this peak season? It is a good idea for companies to make sure their processes are set up to be efficient so they won’t be overwhelmed and unorganized when the rush of orders comes in.
Invest in Technology
Customers are shopping more online in the modern world. Many customers are more than capable of viewing, purchasing, and returning products through online sources. Enabling customers to place orders, see their order status, or start returns online minimizes frustration that may happen in-person. It provides an excellent source of customer service, even while the customer is outside your store. It is equally important to ensure that employees understand how the business operates online, to be able to assist anyone who needs help. How can the business benefit from more technology? An easy online process is sure to be appreciated by customers.
Focus On The Things Can Be Controlled
Problems are bound to arise during such a chaotic time. If something happens that cannot seemingly be resolved, try not to spend too much time and energy on it. Take a step back, look for a different, creative solution. Quick thinking can save defeating problems from causing too much hassle. How can the business recover swiftly from unexpected problems? Remember, your business is not the only one facing challenges during the busy season.
Keep It Simple
Keep in mind that employees and customers should be able to clearly understand the messages you are trying to convey. Promotional sales, communication, and marketing campaigns should obviously state its main purpose. How can the company avoid confusion during peak season? Keeping it simple will avoid unnecessary questions and problems that may come up.
Recharge Before Peak Season
As a business owner, there is not enough time in the day to prepare fully for what is to come. Yet, your mind and body are the most important values. Learning more about how to reduce stress and mental exhaustion will significantly influence your ability to work. Leaving work outside your home, taking care of your needs, and taking breaks – even if it is just for 10 minutes – will help. How can stress be reduced at the company? Encourage health this peak season.
With these tips in mind, hopefully the busy season will be successful for your company. It is an exciting time full of fun festivities, growth, and learning experiences for any small business. Utilize this season to do the best you can for your company.
