While many of us are focusing on the wonderful and joyous aspects of the holiday season, there is an unfortunate darker side to the holidays as well. With an economy that is tough for so many, there is a criminal element that arises from this hardship. Also, at a time of the year where so many are doing a great deal of shopping in large crowds, we are sometimes left more vulnerable than we truly know.
Many of us are operating on a "cash-only" holiday shopping budget. So, that means that are carrying more cash than ever, and the thieves know that too! While I certainly do not want to scare anyone during the holiday season, I know from my many years of retail management experience how so many people assume they are safe, are complacent and truly do not focus on their personal safety while out shopping.
Thus, this tip is all about being safe with your cash while shopping this holiday season!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #23:
Use these tips to be cash safe this holiday season!
1. Many of us rely heavily upon ATMs to withdraw cash. If you can, do the buddy system, especially with ATMs that are slightly more isolated, or if you are withdrawing money while it is dark. If at all possible, it is best to do that cash transaction inside the bank. Take care to make sure that you get your card back (over the last week, I have found TWO cards left in ATMs!) and that you are careful with entering your pin, and requesting and taking your receipts. Yes, the information is somewhat "encrypted" but do you want a potential criminal to know your balance information and decide to target you based off of that info?
2. Do not keep all of your cash in one place. If you are carrying hundreds of dollars, or more, try to break it down into smaller batches so that you are not pulling out a fat wallet or "wad" of money. That is really telegraphing to a potential pickpocket or thief that you are a target. Paper clip it into smaller batches (say $100 in $20s) to minimize how much money you are pulling out in public at any given time.
3. Keep your cash as close to your body as possible. I continue to see moms with their purses in shopping carts everywhere I go. Yes, I live in a safe community. But, remember, the criminal element knows where the "safe" communities are, too. They will pinpoint those very communities as they know that we are more likely to assume that we are safe. I can tell you from experience, when we caught and busted pickpockets and thieves in my stores, they were not from the immediate community. Some had come from as much as 2-3 hours away to get to you in your safe community.
4. Never, ever keep money in pockets, jacket pockets, flaps of your purse or anywhere that a pickpocket could have easy access. A casual "bump" in a crowded mall could be someone relieving you of your cash! I have seen videos of pickpockets that have been caught in my stores, and I can tell you that they were so good I could not even see them taking the cash!
5. Make sure that you are thorough in giving your cash to a cashier. Count it out to them, make sure that they know you are well-aware of what you are handing over to them. Short change artists rip off cashiers all of the time, however, that is reciprocated with cashiers short-changing consumers as well. I had a friend who recently paid for an item and in the hustle and bustle of the transaction was short-changed by $40.00! She told me, in tears, and I called the store on her behalf asking the store manager to count down that drawer immediately. Luckily, the store manager listened, pulled the cashier off of that lane, counted the drawer and found it to be $267.00 OVER in funds. That cashier was creating an amazing little holidy shopping kitty for herself. My friend got her money back, but think of all of the other customers (to the tune of $227.00!) that may not have realized that they were missing change! OUCH!
I do hope that these tips are a reminder to shop safely with your cash this holiday season! Happy Holidays!
Showing posts with label retail. Show all posts
Showing posts with label retail. Show all posts
Friday, December 19, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #22
This holiday season many of us are using far less credit, in some cases because we simply do not have as much credit extended to us, in other cases because we are using cash trying to eliminate debt. Credit card companies have lowered credit limits on many consumers, even those who have faithfully paid their bills on time over years! So, for some consumers they have far less "credit buying power" this holiday season. However, there are ways to protect and maximize that buying power if you so choose!
I have touched upon credit and credit cards in a few other tips, but this one is all about using credit safely this holiday season!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #22:
Use credit and/or debit cards safely this holiday season!
By "safely", I mean the following:
Carry as few cards as possible. If you wallet or purse is lost or stolen, you will have far less risk and far fewer cards to follow up on to close or cancel. I have a dear friend who worked so hard to pay down credit and yet for some reason she still carried those cards with her. Her purse was stolen, and she had a serious mess on her hands, months of battling with credit card companies and following up on fixing that damage. Just don't carry the cards with you, not only does it reduce the temptation to spend more, it keeps you safer.
Carry credit cards as closely to your body as possible. While shopping the other day, I noticed several customers who had left their purses in the shopping cart while they were looking elsewhere. Don't set yourself up, when an economy weakens, the criminal element arises.
Ensure that you keep your eye on your credit card at all times. Do not let an associate wander off with it, make sure that they process the credit card transaction immediately and right in front of you. I was recently shopping and an associate asked to take the item I was interested in and my credit card to give to another cashier. I politely told her that I would do that myself, and thanked her for her help. As a retail manager I was involved in countless internal investigations in which associates were able to get (and immediately USE) credit card numbers that they had gotten in seconds (often times they jot down the number, or they make a "carbon" copy by putting a piece of paper over it and rubbing with a pencil).
Be very careful with applying for the those "immediate" store credit cards. I myself am very leery of this, and in all of my years of retail management, I have never once done this myself. I know from an insider perspective how "sloppy" this process is, and would never expose my personal information in that manner. The applications often sit at registers, exposed to many associates (and even other customers) and I have been involved in way too many internal investigations linked to instant credit applications and identity fraud. Even if the retailer can offer you a completely paperless manner, in which you enter all personal information into a keypad or telephone, I would still not do it. While the immediate discount is very attractive, weigh it against the risks, the reason they are offering to extend credit to you (to get you to buy MORE!) and the interest rate you will pay if you do not pay that balance off immediately.
Set up online account management with your credit cards. During this time of the year, it is a great idea to log on daily and review your charges. If you see anything suspicious, you can react immediately and get resolution much more quickly.
I hope that these few credit safety tips help you to save money and your credit this holiday season!
I have touched upon credit and credit cards in a few other tips, but this one is all about using credit safely this holiday season!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #22:
Use credit and/or debit cards safely this holiday season!
By "safely", I mean the following:
Carry as few cards as possible. If you wallet or purse is lost or stolen, you will have far less risk and far fewer cards to follow up on to close or cancel. I have a dear friend who worked so hard to pay down credit and yet for some reason she still carried those cards with her. Her purse was stolen, and she had a serious mess on her hands, months of battling with credit card companies and following up on fixing that damage. Just don't carry the cards with you, not only does it reduce the temptation to spend more, it keeps you safer.
Carry credit cards as closely to your body as possible. While shopping the other day, I noticed several customers who had left their purses in the shopping cart while they were looking elsewhere. Don't set yourself up, when an economy weakens, the criminal element arises.
Ensure that you keep your eye on your credit card at all times. Do not let an associate wander off with it, make sure that they process the credit card transaction immediately and right in front of you. I was recently shopping and an associate asked to take the item I was interested in and my credit card to give to another cashier. I politely told her that I would do that myself, and thanked her for her help. As a retail manager I was involved in countless internal investigations in which associates were able to get (and immediately USE) credit card numbers that they had gotten in seconds (often times they jot down the number, or they make a "carbon" copy by putting a piece of paper over it and rubbing with a pencil).
Be very careful with applying for the those "immediate" store credit cards. I myself am very leery of this, and in all of my years of retail management, I have never once done this myself. I know from an insider perspective how "sloppy" this process is, and would never expose my personal information in that manner. The applications often sit at registers, exposed to many associates (and even other customers) and I have been involved in way too many internal investigations linked to instant credit applications and identity fraud. Even if the retailer can offer you a completely paperless manner, in which you enter all personal information into a keypad or telephone, I would still not do it. While the immediate discount is very attractive, weigh it against the risks, the reason they are offering to extend credit to you (to get you to buy MORE!) and the interest rate you will pay if you do not pay that balance off immediately.
Set up online account management with your credit cards. During this time of the year, it is a great idea to log on daily and review your charges. If you see anything suspicious, you can react immediately and get resolution much more quickly.
I hope that these few credit safety tips help you to save money and your credit this holiday season!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #21
As a veteran of the retail industry, I know all too well that when economic times are tough, retail managers get very creative to "save the sale" and keep your customers happy. Prices are so incredibly promotional right now, and in some cases literally dropping by the day.
I had posted an earlier tip about keeping your receipts to ensure that if prices dropped, you could return to that retailer to get a price adjustment. Many retailers offer at least a 14-day price protection so that if it goes down (except in the case of clearance items) the retailer will give you that lower price.
The following tip is also related to getting the best price, but with a twist:
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #21:
Keep your eyes open for prices at competitors and ask for that price match if you have already purchased that item at another retailer!
If you have kept your receipts, and find an item that is less expensive elsewhere, you should ask for a price adjustment. If you can find documentation of this lower price, bring that with you (an ad circular, a screenprint, etc.). If the retailer refuses to adjust your price you always have the option of returning the item and purchasing it from the retailer that is less expensive. In today's competitive retail world, the chances are pretty good that the retailer will try to "save the sale" and adjust your price by a few dollars instead of losing many more dollars. The best thing you can do is to ask for the "Manager on Duty" and politely and professionally inform them of the price difference.
This also applies to your online purchases, you should inform the online retailer that there is a lower price from another online competitor and that you would like to ask for a price adjustment. Again, you should have documentation, and can send them a link to the item in your communication.
Where it gets tricky is when you purchased something in a store, but see it online at a competitor for less. Online pricing will often be different than store pricing as they are working with different economies of scale. However, in my experience as both a retail manager and as a consumer is that a retailer will honor that price adjustment if the customer can provide some documentation. I recently was awarded a sizeable price adjustment from a national big box retailer when I brought in a screenprint of the same item with a much lower price online.
It can also be more complex when you have purchased something online but find it for less in a store. It can be done with persistence, patience, politeness and "please and thank you"! Remember, these employees are feeling the pinch of this holiday season, they WANT to find a great way to help friendly customers! The online process can take a bit longer, but I am again proof that it can be done...a certain major online retailer adjusted a $5.00 price difference for me.
Good luck, and remember to always keep your receipts!!!
I had posted an earlier tip about keeping your receipts to ensure that if prices dropped, you could return to that retailer to get a price adjustment. Many retailers offer at least a 14-day price protection so that if it goes down (except in the case of clearance items) the retailer will give you that lower price.
The following tip is also related to getting the best price, but with a twist:
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #21:
Keep your eyes open for prices at competitors and ask for that price match if you have already purchased that item at another retailer!
If you have kept your receipts, and find an item that is less expensive elsewhere, you should ask for a price adjustment. If you can find documentation of this lower price, bring that with you (an ad circular, a screenprint, etc.). If the retailer refuses to adjust your price you always have the option of returning the item and purchasing it from the retailer that is less expensive. In today's competitive retail world, the chances are pretty good that the retailer will try to "save the sale" and adjust your price by a few dollars instead of losing many more dollars. The best thing you can do is to ask for the "Manager on Duty" and politely and professionally inform them of the price difference.
This also applies to your online purchases, you should inform the online retailer that there is a lower price from another online competitor and that you would like to ask for a price adjustment. Again, you should have documentation, and can send them a link to the item in your communication.
Where it gets tricky is when you purchased something in a store, but see it online at a competitor for less. Online pricing will often be different than store pricing as they are working with different economies of scale. However, in my experience as both a retail manager and as a consumer is that a retailer will honor that price adjustment if the customer can provide some documentation. I recently was awarded a sizeable price adjustment from a national big box retailer when I brought in a screenprint of the same item with a much lower price online.
It can also be more complex when you have purchased something online but find it for less in a store. It can be done with persistence, patience, politeness and "please and thank you"! Remember, these employees are feeling the pinch of this holiday season, they WANT to find a great way to help friendly customers! The online process can take a bit longer, but I am again proof that it can be done...a certain major online retailer adjusted a $5.00 price difference for me.
Good luck, and remember to always keep your receipts!!!
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #15
Retailers are savvy about the message that they send to their customers. They spend countless dollars on marketing and media consultants, in-house and outside advertising and marketing gurus and test with focus groups the kind of commercials and advertising they plan to use. I myself saw first hand how marketing campaigns are crafted while working for a national retailer, and it is truly an amazing process.
During the holidays, these campaigns are even more intense and there is an even stronger emotional and cultural component that is designed to resonate more deeply with the consumer. This is more than selling a toy or a bike, this is selling how that toy or bike fits into your family, your lifestyle and your dreams and desires of how the holidays "should" look and feel for your family. These campaigns even poke a bit at feelings of guilt (hurried working mom who feels that she should be spending more time with her kids) or inferiority (the next door neighbor has the Lexus sedan with a big red bow, why don't I have one?)! I won't even touch the intensity of the media campaigns focusing on kids and the "want" vs. "need" factor for toys and gadgets!
This leads to an easy, no-nonsense holiday tip:
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #15:
Turn off the TV during the holiday season, or dramatically limit viewing time!
These commercials are skillfully designed to provoke a very simple, visceral and emotional response. Of course, so many of us truly want the holidays to be special, and it is easy to process the media messages from retailers and their marketing messages to help us define that "special". However, with so many of us cutting back this holiday season, we are better off turning away from the TV and turning to one another to craft that "special" message ourselves. With a tighter budget it will be all the more important to turn inward to focus on how we are going to define the holidays for our family, how we are going to help our kids decide what is "need" and what is "want" and how we are going to celebrate what is most important: enjoying the holidays with friends and family.
During the holidays, these campaigns are even more intense and there is an even stronger emotional and cultural component that is designed to resonate more deeply with the consumer. This is more than selling a toy or a bike, this is selling how that toy or bike fits into your family, your lifestyle and your dreams and desires of how the holidays "should" look and feel for your family. These campaigns even poke a bit at feelings of guilt (hurried working mom who feels that she should be spending more time with her kids) or inferiority (the next door neighbor has the Lexus sedan with a big red bow, why don't I have one?)! I won't even touch the intensity of the media campaigns focusing on kids and the "want" vs. "need" factor for toys and gadgets!
This leads to an easy, no-nonsense holiday tip:
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #15:
Turn off the TV during the holiday season, or dramatically limit viewing time!
These commercials are skillfully designed to provoke a very simple, visceral and emotional response. Of course, so many of us truly want the holidays to be special, and it is easy to process the media messages from retailers and their marketing messages to help us define that "special". However, with so many of us cutting back this holiday season, we are better off turning away from the TV and turning to one another to craft that "special" message ourselves. With a tighter budget it will be all the more important to turn inward to focus on how we are going to define the holidays for our family, how we are going to help our kids decide what is "need" and what is "want" and how we are going to celebrate what is most important: enjoying the holidays with friends and family.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #14
From an earlier post, I described how I truly love how technology truly allows retailers to maximize customer service and drive sales. When I first started in retail, I remember how excited we were to get an corporate-wide email/intranet system. In fact, for about a month or so I went from store to store in our district, and beyond, to help train the store staff on how to use the intranet system.
What a different a few years (okay, about 17 or so!) makes! Technology leads us to the next couple of retai insider tips!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #14:
Sign up for retailers' text/cell phone updates.
I have received text messages from a handful of retailers that have alerted me to products (finally) instock (a hot Wii game!) to a "text only" coupon to save 25% over a two day window. Not bad. I did get the Wii game, did not use the coupon (it was instore only, I have no desire to deal with the mall right now!!!). Remember, text messaging charges may apply, so know your carrier's text message charges and policies.
I am also sure that many of you have heard of other functions and applications, such as the Amazon application for iPhone users called "Amazon Remembers". This is pretty cool. You can take a picture of an item, upload it to Amazon and within minutes (althought anecdotally I have been told that it can take a day or even two, but that has not been my experience) you can have an Amazon match of that same item with what is typically a better price! I love to price shop, as you can see in previous shopping tips, so if you have an iPhone, this is a very slick way of trying to get the best price possible (especially when Amazon ships that item for free!).
One cautionary note: I also have been told that there are some retailers that will ask you to not take pictures in their store. I can tell you from my past retail experience that indeed we did ask customers to not take pictures in our store. Mostly to protect people, however, not our sales! So click with caution!
p.s. Here is a killer site for finding amazing prices on highend designer items for holiday gift giving (and free shipping!!!):
What a different a few years (okay, about 17 or so!) makes! Technology leads us to the next couple of retai insider tips!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #14:
Sign up for retailers' text/cell phone updates.
I have received text messages from a handful of retailers that have alerted me to products (finally) instock (a hot Wii game!) to a "text only" coupon to save 25% over a two day window. Not bad. I did get the Wii game, did not use the coupon (it was instore only, I have no desire to deal with the mall right now!!!). Remember, text messaging charges may apply, so know your carrier's text message charges and policies.
I am also sure that many of you have heard of other functions and applications, such as the Amazon application for iPhone users called "Amazon Remembers". This is pretty cool. You can take a picture of an item, upload it to Amazon and within minutes (althought anecdotally I have been told that it can take a day or even two, but that has not been my experience) you can have an Amazon match of that same item with what is typically a better price! I love to price shop, as you can see in previous shopping tips, so if you have an iPhone, this is a very slick way of trying to get the best price possible (especially when Amazon ships that item for free!).
One cautionary note: I also have been told that there are some retailers that will ask you to not take pictures in their store. I can tell you from my past retail experience that indeed we did ask customers to not take pictures in our store. Mostly to protect people, however, not our sales! So click with caution!
p.s. Here is a killer site for finding amazing prices on highend designer items for holiday gift giving (and free shipping!!!):
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #14
I love how technology truly allows retailers to maximize customer service and drive sales. When I first started in retail, I remember how excited we were to get an corporate-wide email/intranet system. In fact, for about a month or so I went from store to store in our district, and beyond, to help train the store staff on how to use the intranet system.
What a different a few years (okay, about 17 or so!) makes! Technology leads us to the next couple of retai insider tips!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #14:
Sign up for retailers' email updates.
As much as many of us hate to get spam, or emails that simply clog up our inbasket, you can make these emails pay off in savings of both time and money! I have received emails that have offered exclusive savings and special buys. You can always sign up for the emails, and if you truly do not find them to be value-added, you can opt-out (look at the bottom of the email, there will be some kind of verbage to remove your email from their list).
I get emails from both online retailers and brick and mortar retailers. I am a huge fan of Amazon.com emails as they not only offer great savings in many cases, but they are also designed to focus on my likes and interests based off of my recent purchases. (Yes, I am a sucker and think that somehow they "know" me there at Amazon.com!) I have already saved over $100.00 easily by watching my emails and taking advantage of special offers.
p.s. Shopping for eco-friendly loved ones? Gaiam.com is the online destination for people living a lifestyle of health and sustainability. We offer over 4,500 products in categories including; yoga, Pilates, organic cotton clothing and natural and healthy products for the home. Click here for more information and amazing savings!
What a different a few years (okay, about 17 or so!) makes! Technology leads us to the next couple of retai insider tips!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #14:
Sign up for retailers' email updates.
As much as many of us hate to get spam, or emails that simply clog up our inbasket, you can make these emails pay off in savings of both time and money! I have received emails that have offered exclusive savings and special buys. You can always sign up for the emails, and if you truly do not find them to be value-added, you can opt-out (look at the bottom of the email, there will be some kind of verbage to remove your email from their list).
I get emails from both online retailers and brick and mortar retailers. I am a huge fan of Amazon.com emails as they not only offer great savings in many cases, but they are also designed to focus on my likes and interests based off of my recent purchases. (Yes, I am a sucker and think that somehow they "know" me there at Amazon.com!) I have already saved over $100.00 easily by watching my emails and taking advantage of special offers.
p.s. Shopping for eco-friendly loved ones? Gaiam.com is the online destination for people living a lifestyle of health and sustainability. We offer over 4,500 products in categories including; yoga, Pilates, organic cotton clothing and natural and healthy products for the home. Click here for more information and amazing savings!
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #11
As a retail management veteran, I have seen the emergence and importance of consumer credit in the retail industry. One retailer I worked for focused on credit cards as a profit center, after all, when a retailer owns the debt, they also profit from the interest that you pay on revolving that debt! Another retailer focused on credit as a way to drive the average ticket. They did not "own" your debt, so they did not profit from your interest payments. However, they knew that if you used a credit card you were apt to DOUBLE your total transaction dollar...if not more!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #11:
Pay cash, or use your debt card. Keep your credit card for any online shopping in which you can find amazing prices, free shipping, etc.
Cash is king, and if you are on a budget this holiday season, you will be surprised at how much you can save if you pay in cash, or use your debit card. Credit is a wonderful thing, without a doubt, for those who manage it well. However, statistically, you will spend more per transaction when using a credit card. Period. Most of us have a completely different mindset when we have to hand over those dollar bills!
I do use one credit card that is specifically for online transactions. I recommend this as if your credit card number or credit information was somehow compromised online, you have one card to track, and one card to manage. I have found some fantastic online offers, items that even after (FREE!) shipping have been less expensive than instore prices. I definitely won't pass up on that deal! However, I have a post-it note on my computer that has a budget at the top, and I minus out the online credit transactions, and then I have to stop. So, I am balancing not only my cash budget, but also my limited credit budget!
p.s. Have company coming? Fortunoff is a wonderful resource for your home (including that cocktail bar for company!) with great holiday pricing and shipping offers!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #11:
Pay cash, or use your debt card. Keep your credit card for any online shopping in which you can find amazing prices, free shipping, etc.
Cash is king, and if you are on a budget this holiday season, you will be surprised at how much you can save if you pay in cash, or use your debit card. Credit is a wonderful thing, without a doubt, for those who manage it well. However, statistically, you will spend more per transaction when using a credit card. Period. Most of us have a completely different mindset when we have to hand over those dollar bills!
I do use one credit card that is specifically for online transactions. I recommend this as if your credit card number or credit information was somehow compromised online, you have one card to track, and one card to manage. I have found some fantastic online offers, items that even after (FREE!) shipping have been less expensive than instore prices. I definitely won't pass up on that deal! However, I have a post-it note on my computer that has a budget at the top, and I minus out the online credit transactions, and then I have to stop. So, I am balancing not only my cash budget, but also my limited credit budget!
p.s. Have company coming? Fortunoff is a wonderful resource for your home (including that cocktail bar for company!) with great holiday pricing and shipping offers!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #10
After over 15 years in retail, I am a true veteran in knowing what categories are strong for retailers to make margin. One such category are those adorable "stocking stuffer" type items you see all around the stores this time of the year. In fact, here is a tip to get completely FREE stocking stuffers!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #10:
While shopping, ask for samples! Makeup counters, fragrance counters, handbags and accessory stores, almost any department store has free samples, all you have to do is ASK!
I am sure that most of us will do some shopping at our favorite department store this holiday season. I know that I have purchased some cosmetics lately and every single time I ask for samples. At the fragrance counter, I ask for samples to take home and try the fragrance before I purchase it. I have even received free key chains and a free makeup bag for asking.
Many of us hate to ask, but they offer the samples for a reason: not only to help you make future purchases, but as a small "thank you" for your business. I have received at least 25-30 small stocking stuffer-type items while doing my holiday shopping just from the last month or so. I encourage you to ask, you may be pleasantly surprised by how many great stocking stuffer items you can get for free while doing your normal holiday shopping! I even asked at an electronics retailer, and received a free pair of ear buds for an ipod. Why not?!
I am not advocating taking advantage, but I am advocating making every dollar you spend work for YOU.
p.s. Looking for stocking stuffers for the eco-friendly and green living person on your list? Here are some amazing offers!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #10:
While shopping, ask for samples! Makeup counters, fragrance counters, handbags and accessory stores, almost any department store has free samples, all you have to do is ASK!
I am sure that most of us will do some shopping at our favorite department store this holiday season. I know that I have purchased some cosmetics lately and every single time I ask for samples. At the fragrance counter, I ask for samples to take home and try the fragrance before I purchase it. I have even received free key chains and a free makeup bag for asking.
Many of us hate to ask, but they offer the samples for a reason: not only to help you make future purchases, but as a small "thank you" for your business. I have received at least 25-30 small stocking stuffer-type items while doing my holiday shopping just from the last month or so. I encourage you to ask, you may be pleasantly surprised by how many great stocking stuffer items you can get for free while doing your normal holiday shopping! I even asked at an electronics retailer, and received a free pair of ear buds for an ipod. Why not?!
I am not advocating taking advantage, but I am advocating making every dollar you spend work for YOU.
p.s. Looking for stocking stuffers for the eco-friendly and green living person on your list? Here are some amazing offers!
25 Holiday Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #9
After over 15 years in retail, I am a true veteran in knowing what categories are strong for retailers to make margin. One such category are those adorable "stocking stuffer" type items you see all around the stores this time of the year. These are huge margin categories for retailers, and while I love to indulge in some of them, and certainly will again this year, I think that there is a fantastic alternative to finding fun stocking stuffers!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #9:
Go to the "Dollar Store"-type retailers for fun stocking stuffers!
I have found that most of the items that I would use for stocking stuffers or to fill little gift bags for parties, school parties, etc., are at the .99 store! They may not have the fancy brand name, or slightly less fancy packaging, but they are the same item, for much less money! And, when you can save a bit on stocking stuffers you can either keep that savings, or put it toward something special for the family.
p.s. Looking for stocking stuffers for the eco-friendly and green living person on your list? Here are some amazing offers!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #9:
Go to the "Dollar Store"-type retailers for fun stocking stuffers!
I have found that most of the items that I would use for stocking stuffers or to fill little gift bags for parties, school parties, etc., are at the .99 store! They may not have the fancy brand name, or slightly less fancy packaging, but they are the same item, for much less money! And, when you can save a bit on stocking stuffers you can either keep that savings, or put it toward something special for the family.
p.s. Looking for stocking stuffers for the eco-friendly and green living person on your list? Here are some amazing offers!
Monday, December 1, 2008
25 Holiday Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #8
As a retail veteran, I have studied upclose many aspects of consumer spending and what makes consumers spend more at any given retail store. One aspect of consumer spending is the aspect of group suggestive selling, or a kind of "pack" mentality that occurs when people shop in larger groups.
This is very common when parents shop with their kids. Kids watch TV, they see commercials for all of that neat stuff that they "need" (read: want) and when they go shopping with mom and dad those savvy kids "suggestive sell" those "needs" to their parents! I love to shop with friends, and often take a friend when I am making an important shopping decision so they can help gauge what looks good on me, if something fits right, etc. However, that friend subconsciously suggestive sells to me as well. Retailers LOVE this, and will use commercials to show parents shopping with their kids, gals with their girlfriends, etc.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #8:
If you can, with your personal safety first in mind, shop alone.
I do stress "if you can" in this shopping tip as I would always err on the side of safety first. If you are shopping at odd hours, when it is dark, or you are carrying larger sums of cash, this tip may not be the right one for you.
However, you can still shop using the "buddy system". With cell phones you can keep in contact via calls or text messages and still do your targeted shopping alone, while your friend or family member does their targeted shopping alone. Doesn't sound like much fun? Well, you will save money, you will stay on your budget, and you can always enjoy a great cup of mocha or lunch together!
And, truly, I do advocate if possible not shopping with your kids. Retailers deliberately merchandise their stores year around with kids in mind, however, at this time of the year they make it all the more dangerous! What you spend on a babysitter may be well worth the investment in what you save when you do not fall prey to kids begging for this and that..."this and that" can add up too quickly!
p.s. Here is an easy item to shop for alone, online! Barefoot Contessa Pantry items are wonderfully delicious! Fantastic food items for your holiday needs, or gift-giving needs!
Save 10% on our Product of the Month
This is very common when parents shop with their kids. Kids watch TV, they see commercials for all of that neat stuff that they "need" (read: want) and when they go shopping with mom and dad those savvy kids "suggestive sell" those "needs" to their parents! I love to shop with friends, and often take a friend when I am making an important shopping decision so they can help gauge what looks good on me, if something fits right, etc. However, that friend subconsciously suggestive sells to me as well. Retailers LOVE this, and will use commercials to show parents shopping with their kids, gals with their girlfriends, etc.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #8:
If you can, with your personal safety first in mind, shop alone.
I do stress "if you can" in this shopping tip as I would always err on the side of safety first. If you are shopping at odd hours, when it is dark, or you are carrying larger sums of cash, this tip may not be the right one for you.
However, you can still shop using the "buddy system". With cell phones you can keep in contact via calls or text messages and still do your targeted shopping alone, while your friend or family member does their targeted shopping alone. Doesn't sound like much fun? Well, you will save money, you will stay on your budget, and you can always enjoy a great cup of mocha or lunch together!
And, truly, I do advocate if possible not shopping with your kids. Retailers deliberately merchandise their stores year around with kids in mind, however, at this time of the year they make it all the more dangerous! What you spend on a babysitter may be well worth the investment in what you save when you do not fall prey to kids begging for this and that..."this and that" can add up too quickly!
p.s. Here is an easy item to shop for alone, online! Barefoot Contessa Pantry items are wonderfully delicious! Fantastic food items for your holiday needs, or gift-giving needs!
Save 10% on our Product of the Month
25 Holiday Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #7
During my over 15 year retail tenure, I got to have amazing experiences in understanding the strategy behind the physical layout of a store. I was able to be part of new store openings and remodels. There is a true science to a layout of a store and it has everything to do with the way that we shop not only with our wallets but with visual cues and emotional cues.
Without getting into the hardcore theory and strategy, I will give you two of the easiest examples... Sugar cereal is lower on the aisle so that it is at eyelevel of the kids who will beg their parents to buy them the sugar cereal. Trust me, I know as I am a bit vertically challenged and have to seriously stretch to get at my Grape Nuts and "good for you" cereals! Candy is at the checklanes so that while mom is unloading the cart, kids have yet one more chance to beg for sugar! This leads me to my next shopping tip...
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #7:
Avoid departments in a store that are YOUR weakness.
Yes, this seems like a no-brainer, however, retailers have worked long and hard to get the weakness departments right in front of you. Why put toys in the back of the store? TO MAKE YOU WALK THROUGH EVERY OTHER DEPARTMENT FIRST...AND YET ONE MORE TIME TO GET TO THE REGISTERS! Shoes and handbags are my vices. I will actually walk out of my way in some retail stores to stay away from those departments. Do I lack restraint? No. But, during this time of the year, when it is easy to spend a little here, a little there...impulse buying is simply not a sound shopping strategy if a budget is in place!
I even recommend using store maps. Don't wander, retailers depend upon you wandering through the store, impulse buying, picking up this little box of chocolates, that candle. The reason so many retailers have special tables and merchandise displays up this time of the year is to capture the wandering eye and the wandering consumer.
p.s. If you have a wandering eye, let it wander here! Barefoot Contessa Pantry items are wonderfully delicious! Fantastic food items for your holiday needs, or gift-giving needs!
Save 10% on our Product of the Month
Without getting into the hardcore theory and strategy, I will give you two of the easiest examples... Sugar cereal is lower on the aisle so that it is at eyelevel of the kids who will beg their parents to buy them the sugar cereal. Trust me, I know as I am a bit vertically challenged and have to seriously stretch to get at my Grape Nuts and "good for you" cereals! Candy is at the checklanes so that while mom is unloading the cart, kids have yet one more chance to beg for sugar! This leads me to my next shopping tip...
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #7:
Avoid departments in a store that are YOUR weakness.
Yes, this seems like a no-brainer, however, retailers have worked long and hard to get the weakness departments right in front of you. Why put toys in the back of the store? TO MAKE YOU WALK THROUGH EVERY OTHER DEPARTMENT FIRST...AND YET ONE MORE TIME TO GET TO THE REGISTERS! Shoes and handbags are my vices. I will actually walk out of my way in some retail stores to stay away from those departments. Do I lack restraint? No. But, during this time of the year, when it is easy to spend a little here, a little there...impulse buying is simply not a sound shopping strategy if a budget is in place!
I even recommend using store maps. Don't wander, retailers depend upon you wandering through the store, impulse buying, picking up this little box of chocolates, that candle. The reason so many retailers have special tables and merchandise displays up this time of the year is to capture the wandering eye and the wandering consumer.
p.s. If you have a wandering eye, let it wander here! Barefoot Contessa Pantry items are wonderfully delicious! Fantastic food items for your holiday needs, or gift-giving needs!
Save 10% on our Product of the Month
25 Holiday Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #6
During my over 15 year retail tenure, I was known for building strong sales cultures. What is a sales culture? A culture in your store in which your team is laser focused on sales through product knowledge, instocks, great customer service and other key elements of a sales culture.
Retail teams are trained to not only provide you with the product knowledge you need to make your purchase, but if they are well-trained, they also know how to sell you expensive, high margin add-ons that can easily take you from making your budget to busting your budget!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #6:
Beware the add-ons, stick to your planned purchase.
Do your research upfront. Know what you need to make your product work to your expectations. Cables to connect a flat screen or a game system to your entertainment center can cost an arm and a leg...in some cases almost as much as your gaming system! Know exactly what you need, and only buy to that need.
I can be completely candid in telling you that retailers do not want you to be that knowledgeable. They rely on you needing THEIR knowledge, and expect that consumers come to them for the "answers". That is fine, if you want their "answers" that have the most expensive solutions to your consumer product inquiries.
p.s. No upselling here. Fantastic food items for your holiday needs, or gift-giving needs!
Save 10% on our Product of the Month
Retail teams are trained to not only provide you with the product knowledge you need to make your purchase, but if they are well-trained, they also know how to sell you expensive, high margin add-ons that can easily take you from making your budget to busting your budget!
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #6:
Beware the add-ons, stick to your planned purchase.
Do your research upfront. Know what you need to make your product work to your expectations. Cables to connect a flat screen or a game system to your entertainment center can cost an arm and a leg...in some cases almost as much as your gaming system! Know exactly what you need, and only buy to that need.
I can be completely candid in telling you that retailers do not want you to be that knowledgeable. They rely on you needing THEIR knowledge, and expect that consumers come to them for the "answers". That is fine, if you want their "answers" that have the most expensive solutions to your consumer product inquiries.
p.s. No upselling here. Fantastic food items for your holiday needs, or gift-giving needs!
Save 10% on our Product of the Month
Friday, November 28, 2008
25 Holiday Shopping Tips for the 25 Days of Christmas: Tip #5
After over 15 years of retail management, I have worked for retailers in good times and the not-so-good times. In fact, my first retail management position was the The Broadway (remember them??!!) and I began working there when they were already in Chapter 11. I recall going into some of the stores that we began to close to transfer inventory to stores that were planned to stay open. I was recruited to work for another retailer, so I was not with The Broadway when they closed their doors for good. However, I did buy a lot from The Broadway when they were dramatically marking down and liquidating inventory.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #4:
Shop for killer prices from retailers going out of business or closing stores.
With this tip, however, comes a cautionary note. You can find great prices, but you will have little to no recourse should what you bought not fit, not work or be a duplicate item. I have already heard many anecdotal tales of incredible deals that are out there from a wide variety of retailers that are struggling or closing for good. With that "deal" comes the realization that it is pretty much a "final sale"!
This is a great time to buy basics, buy what you know will fit, and buy things that have reliable manufacturer warranties. For example, if you were to purchase an electronics item from a retailer going out of business, you may have a solid year of manufacturer coverage anyway.
Tip: This can also be a great time to "shop ahead". When I worked for one retailer, I would often buy post-holiday clearance toys as birthday, even Christmas, presents for the year ahead. If you see great deals on digital cameras, mp3 players, digital frames, clothing basics, etc., I would buy them now and have them as presents you can give all year long. You can enjoy these savings for weeks and months to come!
p.s. Here is one present that will always fit, always work and never need to be returned or exchanged! PERSONALIZED WINE!
Custom Wine = The Perfect Gift
COUPON CODE - KC84W8
HOLIDAY SHOPPING TIP #4:
Shop for killer prices from retailers going out of business or closing stores.
With this tip, however, comes a cautionary note. You can find great prices, but you will have little to no recourse should what you bought not fit, not work or be a duplicate item. I have already heard many anecdotal tales of incredible deals that are out there from a wide variety of retailers that are struggling or closing for good. With that "deal" comes the realization that it is pretty much a "final sale"!
This is a great time to buy basics, buy what you know will fit, and buy things that have reliable manufacturer warranties. For example, if you were to purchase an electronics item from a retailer going out of business, you may have a solid year of manufacturer coverage anyway.
Tip: This can also be a great time to "shop ahead". When I worked for one retailer, I would often buy post-holiday clearance toys as birthday, even Christmas, presents for the year ahead. If you see great deals on digital cameras, mp3 players, digital frames, clothing basics, etc., I would buy them now and have them as presents you can give all year long. You can enjoy these savings for weeks and months to come!
p.s. Here is one present that will always fit, always work and never need to be returned or exchanged! PERSONALIZED WINE!
Custom Wine = The Perfect Gift
COUPON CODE - KC84W8
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