How do I get new customers? This is probably the question I get asked the MOST. Of course, the purpose of your marketing strategy and all the time, sweat and money you put into it – is ultimately to get new customers so you can increase sales. Getting new customers is actually the last step in our Sales Breakthrough System, … Read More
Why are My Sales so Slow?
“Why are my sales so slow? We should be busier than this!” you think to yourself after checking your daily sales total for the third time in the last hour, even though you know it hasn’t changed. Your store is full of beautiful inventory that you have spent so much time carefully choosing and editing for your customers, so where … Read More
Retail Planning: Do NOT Make Resolutions Yet!
This time of year we’re flooded with posts about New Year resolutions. And don’t get me wrong – I absolutely believe in setting goals, and in writing them down. That’s surely a step that increases success. But right now I’m asking you to NOT make any New Year’s Resolutions. Not yet. There is something else you must do first. Look … Read More
Is the Battle Between Indie Retail vs. Big Box Real?
I am the first to agree that independent retail comes with its fair share of challenges and obstacles. So is the battle between indie retail vs. big box real? Truthfully? There are many store owner misconceptions – that creates obstacles that otherwise wouldn’t be there. I find that the fourth quarter and holiday season tend to bring these misconceptions, fears, … Read More
7 Sure Ways to Waste Your Team’s Time
I remember when a retailer told me that staff meetings were a waste of time. Now I have heard many excuses why retailers don’t do them – but I usually don’t hear that they aren’t worth doing at all. So when I dug a little deeper, it became clear that this retailer was making some very common mistakes that did … Read More
This World Needs You: A November Challenge
I have a November challenge for you dear store owner. Because as an independent retailer, you are an integral part of a HUGE patchwork that ties your community together. On a larger scale, you are a cornerstone of our greater society. That is why we are declaring November the month of GRATITUDE!And here is why you should declare it with … Read More
Want More Profit? Better Sleep? 4 Ways to Breakthrough to the Next Level
Definition of A BREAKTHROUGH: any significant of sudden advance that removes a barrier to progress. Our stated goal: To help you shift your perspective and raise your level of consciousness so that you actively create the business and life you desire by giving you concrete, actionable activities that will help you remove barriers and advance to the next level of … Read More
It’s Oh So Hard…
Thanks to Suzanne Evans for the message and inspiration for this … Hey Friends! What an uplifting title! It’s oh so hard. But it is. I am reminded daily that if this were easy everyone would do it. The phone calls. The late night emails. The customers who want everything just right and make you crazy. The customers who can’t … Read More
What are you doing wrong in December?
What are you doing wrong in December? Not knowing how much cash you will have at the end of the year. It is important to see how much cash you are on track to generate compared to how much you need to take care of bills. There is still time to take strategic action. I am here to help you. … Read More
Do It the Peppermill Way – 5 Ways to Connect With Your Raving Fans
The images of Las Vegas linger in my mind. Boy do they know how to do marketing there. Even in breakfast diners! Paul and I had spent the evening at the Venetian. We asked a bartender where to go for breakfast and her immediate response was “The Peppermill.” Then our cabbie on the ride home gave us the same advice. … Read More
