Retail Today with Bob Phibbs, The Retail Doctor

In this episode, we explore the phenomenon of Christmas decorations appearing in stores well before Halloween. We delve into the reasons behind this trend, driven by retailers eager to capture holiday spending early on. Discover how these early displays tap into consumer psychology, creating a sense of urgency and fear of missing out, ultimately influencing our purchasing decisions.

We discuss the balance retailers must strike to avoid overwhelming consumers and risking sensory overload, drawing parallels with other marketing strategies. The episode also touches on the importance of mindful consumption and reclaiming the true spirit of the holidays, emphasizing connection and joy over commercialism.

Join us as we consider how to create meaningful holiday experiences, focusing on traditions and moments that don't require extravagant spending. Learn how to navigate the holiday season with intention, remembering that the most valuable gifts aren't found on store shelves. Why Stores Should Display Christmas Merch Before Halloween https://www.retaildoc.com/why-retailers-should-display-holiday-merchandise-before-halloween

Ever walked into a store and felt like it just blended in with every other shop? In this episode, we dive into what makes a retail store truly stand out and why just having products to sell isn't enough anymore. People crave unique experiences, and that's where Bob Fibbs, the retail doctor, comes in.

We explore the concept of not being "beige"—blending into the background and becoming forgettable. Fibbs shares stories of retail successes and failures, emphasizing the importance of exceptional customer service, knowledgeable staff, captivating visuals, thoughtful store design, and value-driven pricing.

Discover the five elements of being remarkable in retail and how creating a connection with customers can transform their shopping experience. We also touch on how these principles apply to online stores, highlighting the importance of an omni-channel approach to retail.

Whether you're running a business or just love to shop, this episode is all about understanding what makes you feel welcome and wanting to come back for more. Read more at How To Fix The Fatal Mistake That's Losing You Retail Customers https://www.retaildoc.com/blog/how-to-fix-fatal-mistake-you-thats-losing-retail-customers-due-to-customer-service

In this episode, we delve into the nuances of customer service in retail, exploring the impact of those seemingly small interactions that can make or break a customer's experience. Guided by the insights from the article "50 Things Retail Sales Associates Should Avoid Doing," we uncover the power of first impressions, the significance of genuine engagement, and the importance of empathy.

Discover how a simple shift in language and demeanor can transform a negative interaction into a positive one, and why creating a supportive environment for employees is essential for exceptional customer service. Join us as we highlight the human element in retail and the lasting impact of treating customers with kindness, understanding, and respect.

Whether you're a customer or a retail associate, this episode offers valuable takeaways on the importance of connection and the ripple effects of a little empathy in the world of retail.

Excellent customer service is dependent on your sales associates. Likewise, a bad customer service experience depends on your associates delivering poor customer service in your retail store.

It doesn't matter if you are one of those brick-and-mortar retailers trying to do experiential retail, an established boutique, or a pop-up shop. Consumers, once burned, are likely never to return and more likely to take a chance online before retaking a chance after a poor shopping experience. Here are 50 of my blunt reminders for both staff and owners of specialty retailers based on real-world examples. They usually happen because the retailer does not use retail sales training courses to deliver an exceptional experience.

Unless you stop these things from happening, they will start a chain of unmanageable events.

Customer service skill is needed to avoid these things that can make the difference between customers saying, "I'll take it," and "I'm outta here."

Bad Customer Service Examples: 50 Employee Mistakes https://www.retaildoc.com/blog/50holidays

Bob Phibbs hosts April Sabral to discuss key retail challenges. Topics include: overcoming the stigma of retail careers, motivating employees, managing accountability, acquiring new customers, and balancing manager-employee relationships. The experts share practical tips for small business owners and retail managers on leadership, customer service, and driving sales. Includes Q&A addressing common retail management issues.

With August just two weeks away, students and parents are putting together their back-to-school shopping lists. Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor in New York, joins Rachel Pierson on the WBBM Noon Business Hour discuss the financial impact of back-to-school shopping and how inflation and modern tech needs are driving up costs. Bob shares insights into the National Retail Federation's statistics, highlighting an average spend of $875, which for some families rivals their holiday budgets.

We explore how teachers are also feeling the pinch, often having to budget for classroom supplies themselves. Bob provides valuable advice for parents looking to find deals and manage expenses, especially during major sales events like Amazon's Prime Day and similar promotions from other retailers like Macy's and Target.

Finally, Bob suggests a collaborative approach to managing these costs by involving extended family members who might be eager to contribute to the students' academic success. Tune in for practical tips and strategies to make back-to-school shopping more manageable.

Join me, as I dive into the challenges and solutions of hiring and training retail employees in 2024. In this live session, Bob answers questions from viewers, offering candid advice and insights on how to attract, train, and retain the best talent in the retail industry.

I discuss the evolving expectations of today's workforce, the importance of proper training, and the need for competitive compensation. I also address the common pitfalls of hiring practices and provide actionable tips for creating a motivated and loyal team.

Whether you're a store owner, manager, or aspiring retail professional, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you navigate the complexities of modern retail employment.

Join Bob Fibbs, the retail doc, at the Virginia Transportation Museum in Roanoke as he explores the significance of curiosity and innovation in shaping our world. Standing beside a massive steam engine, Bob delves into historical anecdotes, such as the origin of the phrase "the real McCoy," to illustrate the power of human ingenuity.

Bob expresses concern about the current generation's lack of engagement with the world of wonder and encourages parents, aunts, uncles, and mentors to expose young minds to the marvels of history and engineering. Through captivating stories of past inventions and the challenges faced by early workers, Bob emphasizes the importance of curiosity and creativity in fostering self-esteem and driving future innovations.

Discover how simple yet ingenious solutions, like the use of sand to aid train traction, exemplify the boundless potential of human creativity. Bob's message is clear: inspire the next generation to dream big and aspire to achieve great things.

Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments. Bob Phibbs, the retail doc, out. Thank you.

Discover the history and significant impact of small businesses on the national economy, as well as inspiring tales of resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship from prominent business owners. President John F. Kennedy first officiated the celebration of small businesses in the first week of May, acknowledging their significant contribution to job creation and economic activity. Highlighting the journey from humble beginnings to market dominance, these storytelling podcasts depict a vivid picture of courageous entrepreneurs who dared to challenge convention, turn risks into opportunities, and reshape the dynamics of their respective industries.

Brace yourself for heartwarming stories from Deanna Wallin, founder of Naples Soap Company; Billy Eklund of Eklund's Farm Machinery; and Heidi West from Lifestyles of Saratoga. Witness how these entrepreneurs weathered business storms, revitalized family ventures, and maintained strong community ties through ethical values and sustainable practices.

Also, glean knowledge and experience from admired retail entrepreneurs: Tony Drocton, CEO, Hammett; Tammy Ketterman, CEO, Ketterman's Jewelers; and Brian Trevilla, author of 'Leading in Retail.' Through an invaluable exchange of insights, lessons, and mentors, discover the true essence of small businesses symbolizing hope, opportunity, and prosperity for all.

In the end, let us toast the indomitable spirit of small businesses worldwide for nurturing dreams, creating jobs, and invigorating the economy. Join us in celebrating their journey towards success.

In this episode, Rob from WBBM NEWSRADIO delves into 'Sephora Kids,' an intriguing phenomenon involving tweens gravitating towards skincare, driven by social media platforms like TikTok. Speaking to us is Bob Phibbs, CEO of the Retail Doctor, based in New York. Bob explains how these young girls from 10 to 12-year-olds are watching skincare videos online, visiting stores like Sephora and Ulta, and selecting high-end products designed for mature skin. The result? There is an unfortunate increase in skincare issues among the young demographic, including acne and rashes.

As parents struggle to cope with the unexpected blow to household budgets from expensive skincare products, the conversation also touches upon body image, how young teens strive to be popular and imitate adults. Bob discusses the pivotal role played by retail associates

Join Bob Phibbs, a.k.a. the Retail Doc, as he shares his valuable insights on how to boost retail sales by effectively utilizing add-on strategies. Having helped retailers amass millions in sales worldwide, Bob discusses the importance and practicality of add-ons - items suggested for purchase in addition to an initial acquisition.

In this instructive episode, Bob demonstrates how a simple item like a hair massager can be the perfect add-on. Priced at just $5, it's an easy and affordable option for customers, particularly those in a salon setting. Bob emphasizes the value of starting with small, easily comprehensible add-ons before gradually introducing more complex options such as service contracts.

Framing add-ons as an opportunity rather than an imposition is key, suggests Bob. Drawing from his experience in the shoe care industry, he offers anecdotes of how small incentive schemes motivated employees to promote add-ons. Training your staff to see the value in add-ons, understand their benefits, and communicate these effectively to the customers, could enhance the shopping experience and improve sales performance.

This episode is a must-hear for anyone looking to up their retail game in 2024, providing valuable strategies and tips on how to increase sales, boost profit margins, and enhance customer experience through add-on strategies. Leave your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned for more retail insights.