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Depending on where you live, you might have already opened your doors. If not, hopefully you’re in the planning process – congrats either way! The last few months haven’t been easy for small businesses (particularly retail shops), but we’ve been impressed with the adaptability and resilience small business owners have shown in these unprecedented times.
Now, it’s time to get back to business…so let’s get your store up and running in the best – and safest – way possible.
Keep a safe social distance
Direct customers while they’re shopping.
Show people the way (and inform them of any new store rules) right away. Use clearly marked signage on windows, walls, and floors. You also might want to consider decreasing store capacity – only allow a few people in your store at once, and think about setting up a reservation system or offering personal shopping appointments to cut down on lines and wait times.
And make all of your store’s aisles one way to promote social distancing – use floor decals with arrows (and simple instructions) to show everyone the way.
Encourage call ahead orders and store pickups.
Some people aren’t quite ready to head to the stores, and that’s okay. Make sure your website and social media platforms are up to date with your latest merchandise by posting styled photos or even quick phone pics of your products. If customers are interested, they can buy on your site, over the phone, or through other platforms like Etsy. Then offer in-store pick up, curb-side drop off, or even better, home delivery.
Offer virtual or private shopping sessions.
If you’re able to, open your store during off hours for pre-scheduled 1:1 appointments. Customers can safely shop, and you can recommend items and answer questions. It’s like having their own personal shopper! If that’s not an option, consider Facebook or Instagram live videos featuring your merchandise – with an easy way to purchase.
Prioritise safety for customers & employees
Provide employees with protective gear.
If you haven’t already, make sure you stock up on masks, shields, gloves, and hand sanitiser. Along with your customers, your employees – who are working the front lines – need to feel safe. If your state has mandated masks in retail stores, post signage telling customers to wear theirs while shopping. If you can, have some backups handy.
Create a contactless payment system.
Many customers will be uncomfortable touching card machines and exchanging cash. Encourage them to use Google or Apple Pay or PayPal over cash or debit cards. If that doesn’t work, have hand sanitiser by your register, and wipe down pens before and after every use…or give every customer a branded pen to remember you by.
Communicate with customers
Let customers know your plans.
New hours, procedures, or payment methods? Let customers know! It can be as simple as posting on your website, having clear signage indoors and out, or even mailing postcards with your updated information – and a note letting them know how much you missed them.
