We are living in unique times. Retailers and business owners around the world are changing the way they operate. It’s key to remember these changes are necessary for the safety of customers and team members alike. When you start to think about your new normal, remember the mission and vision of your company. Use your guiding truths to help build a new foundation for success. Work as a team to craft a new operating standard in your showroom. Use technology to simplify and streamline processes. 

To help you with the tactical aspect we have put together a list of tips to consider when reopening:

1. The best format for in person appointments is one to one; one customer per available showroom employee.
2. It would be beneficial for the customer and the employee to wash their hands before touring the showroom to prevent the spread of disease.
3. If possible, the customer and employee should wear a mask. You should have an ample supply of masks available to your team.
4. Showroom employees should mark all items touched or handled by the customer with a post-it note or other removable stickers. Once the visit is complete, the showroom should sanitize all products handled by the customer.
5. Ensure the customer takes all pens, paper and materials that they have touched with them. Offer to dispose of anything they do not wish to keep.
6. Remove any collateral the customer can pick up and potentially leave behind; brochures, free samples, pens. Minimize display decorations and staging to be clean and simple.
7. Offer touchless payment solutions like Pay Trace.
8. Be mindful of your customers time. If possible, get as much information about their project before they arrive via phone call or email.
9. Space desks and work stations at least 6 ft apart.
10. Post new showroom policies clearly. Have signage in the showroom and messaging on your website. Communicate what to expect with your customer before the visit. It would be best for the manger to come up with an email template to be used by all associates for consistency.