Heads Up, Eyes Open

I recently traveled to another city to conduct a sales training workshop for a retail client of mine. At the end of the day I ventured into a local restaurant for dinner, and because I was by myself, I chose to sit at the bar. The only other people at the bar were a group of 3 people to my left and a lone female patron to my right. I sat patiently, waiting for one of the 2 bartenders to approach me.

Eventually, one of them made his way to my end of the bar to check on the group of three. He swiveled, walked directly past me, and asked the female customer if she wanted anything else. It wasn’t until I requested service several minutes later that someone approached me.
This isn’t an uncommon scenario in the hospitality business OR in retail.

I have noticed that most people don’t watch what is happening around them. If you work in a retail environment, you need to be aware of what is going on around you. You need to be aware of customers who require assistance, who is ready to pay for their purchase, and potential secruity issues.

Talking to your coworkers, calling a friend on your cell phone, reading a magazine, or dazing off into space prevents you from being aware of your surroundings and what is going on around you.

Improve your service, sales and business. Keep your head up and your eyes open.

Cheers!
Kelley