Work at Nancy O's has consisted of advertising through Facebook, organizing and some inventory.
For Facebook advertsing we take pictures that will promote what's new or entice people to stop in. Last week I took a lot of pictures of our Valentines merchandise and promoted Nancy's stock.
I also went through Nancy's catalogues and threw out the 2012 and older. It is good to go through the store at the beginning of the year and weed out what is truly needed. The store keeps improving in its organization. Jane(a coworker) brought up that it is important to keep in mind what supplies you already have before always going out and buying it: such as nails, pens, basic items needed for functioning.
I have had some practice with inventory. It became obvious just how much organization and memory play a part in keeping up with inventory.
Nancy has been full of great tips lately. She remarked that it is exceedingly important a store always keeps up with its labels; right away every item should be labeled, so confusion does not arise over price. Nancy also brought up how important it is to never do bookwork during open business hours. Focusing on one at a time will create efficiency and save time. Which brings up her advice do take things one at a time. Focus and motive is lost when trying to do three things at once. This week Nancy and I also discussed the frustration over shipping. Shipping has become ridiculous in rates and affects her selling price. In a small town it can be hard to price things because it is important to make a profit and not overcharge at the same time. My favorite advice was when we were locking up for the night; I went to shut off her lamps and lanterns. But Nancy stopped me and said the electricity bill is worth keeping these things running all night, because it attracts customers. Seeing the shop all lit up when it is dark out, sparks curiosity in passersby and she has even had someone tell her they came in because they saw it lit up at night and wanted to see what was actually inside.
I also had the opportunity to attend a community function with Nancy where she mingled with people from our town. These events give Nancy the chance to casually promote her business and I thought it was smart she took advantage of this occasion.
All of those business owners out there, I hope you can benefit from her advice as well!
