Last week I had an errand to run, and of course there was a biz lesson...
Hello Butterfly! 2020 is almost over. OH MY GOODNESS...it has been a YEAR. Not all was negative. There were definitely blessings taking place. Here is a virtual hug for 2020.
Now for the story time. I have (3) plants. My plants, unfortunately suffered from attack of the gnats. This is not cool. I am new to taking care of plants. So my knowledge is limited to watering and datz it. LOL. No worries...I am learning more. Anyway...it was time for me to re-pot the plants, because my natural efforts were not working very well. This process meant that I needed some soil. Here is where the biz lessons start...
I have Home Depot and Lowes in my neighborhood. I also wanted to check Big Lots and Wal Mart. The lessons are in inventory...customer service...and market saturation.
Market Saturation : No such thing. Literally, I was ready to spend my money at one of the four locations. Did you hear that? I was willing to search (4) different brands that sell items in the same niche. So whatever it is you wanna start and own...don't think there is not room for your version. Online and offline shoppers need variety.
Customer Service : All I expect is HELLO...WELCOME...MAY I HELP YOU. One of the three (3) will do. The ONLY store out of the (4) that did that was Lowes. They were the last place I checked. So be patient...people might go with well known creators first before they check you. You never know the customers journey before they get to you. So, always be POLITE. You will be surprised at how many digital brands are well known with (not so great) customer service.
Inventory : Two locations didn't have indoor soil in stock. Big Lots didn't have it, but they had customer service that told me that they would have it in the spring. If you don't have what your customer needs...be nice and let them know when you will be back in stock. This will leave a good feeling with the client/customer and they will likely buy something else you have.
Enjoy the rest of your 2020. I will be back in your inbox in 2021. Thank you for ALL of your support and opened emails!
