Connect with technology inside your store, too. Interactive displays with touchscreens, self-service options, etc., impress customers and improve their shopping experiences. Retailers are increasingly connecting with shoppers via smartphone, too, providing one-on-one special offers that increase engagement and a customer's time in-store.
Perhaps the biggest advantage physical stores have over online shopping is that you can appeal to multiple senses, up close and personal. You can’t handle the merchandise, try it on, or even be sure about the color or texture when shopping online. This is engagement at its most basic and most effective level.
Add to that personal touch. Individual interactions with friendly, helpful sales associates can be the turning point for some unsure customers. While you can effectively use traditional signage and digital technologies to educate shoppers about products, there is still plenty to be said about the value of hands-on demonstration. That’s as true for lawnmowers and kitchen equipment as it is for diamond jewelry.
A recognizable brand tells prospective shoppers what to expect. It makes your store easy to find. It’s a visual and visceral connection to your loyal customers. Taking the time to enhance your web presence online while providing impeccable customer service in-person are two ways to have shoppers boasting about your brand in no time.