6 Ways to engage shoppers instore

Every retailer should be focusing on increasing shopper engagement, helping to improve sales and create instore experiences that boost loyalty. This article takes a look at six of the best ways to engage shoppers instore.

6 Ways to engage shoppers instore

The traditional “how can I help you?” is no longer enough to engage a shopper and give them a reason to make a purchase. These pointers should help to get the creativity flowing and help staff to make every customer feel truly valued.

1, Welcome every customer

This doesn’t necessarily need to be a long conversation with the intention of upselling. Making every customer feel welcome as they enter the store goes a long way in encouraging them to browse and spend longer instore.

2. Show genuine interest

Genuine interest is easy to differentiate from a scripted, meaningless conversation. By teaching staff the art of active listening, they will be engaged in the conversation and it won’t feel like a heartless transaction. Everybody wants to feel valued when they walk into a shop, so make sure staff are passionate about finding out how they can help shoppers.

3. Ask questions

To learn more about the shopper, staff should be trained on how to ask the right questions. By being inquisitive and building rapport with customers, it makes it easier to identify their needs, make great recommendations and ultimately, provide a memorable instore experience.

4. Allow shoppers to engage with products

An enormous 81% of shoppers research products online before making a purchase. Many people go instore to see an item in person before making the commitment to buying. A conversation that identifies consumers’ interests can make it easy for staff to allow the shopper to explore the product, or even try it instore. With 82% of consumers wanting to view and feel products instore before buying, this is a great way to boost conversions.

5. Understand signals

Not everybody is comfortable having an in-depth conversation with a stranger, so make sure staff are mindful that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. If somebody appears more set on exploring a shop without assistance, don’t force conversation.

6. Use feedback

Asking shoppers how they found their visit is a fantastic way to gain insight into ways you can improve the instore experience, as well as highlighting the things that you’re already doing well.

Engage shoppers instore

Now is the time to put these tips to the test. Remember, genuine interest is the best way to engage and learn more about a shopper, so it’s important that staff are trained to be confident in making conversation relevant to the situation.