How to Survive Black Friday as a Retailer
“Black Friday” is a state of mind. When you are in retail, the fourth quarter of the year begins the holiday shopping season, so you become used to bigger than average crowds, more stress, longer hours, and more work. This all starts in the end of September and builds to a crescendo which ends on the first of the new year.
That being said, the Friday after Thanksgiving still holds a certain number of challenge as many retailers open extended hours and have bigger than usual sales. This presents retail workers with a day that is extraordinary in its ability to overwhelm. Here are some tips on how to prepare:
1) Start with the basics - Take care of yourself physically by getting a good night’s sleep the night before. Make sure you eat a good breakfast and pack a lunch because you will be rushed at lunch time, even if you do get a break. Drink plenty of water and bring some with you. In short, you need to prepare yourself as if you’re going to run a marathon.
2) Know your product and its placement - By knowing where things are, especially sale items, you will reduce your personal stress. You will save yourself time and energy by walking your store before you start to note what the popular sale items are and where they are located. It is also helpful to write down prices and other details (model, brand name, etc). Make a note of the things that people are going to ask you for.
3) Prepare your attitude - As a retailer, you know this is the “big day” and that the crowds you will face will work on your very last nerve. Knowing this in advance allows you to mentally prepare yourself. Focus on your tasks and doing them well. Don’t let other people’s anxiety and tension wear you down. If you need to, meditate, pray, hum, chant, whatever you do to keep calm and focused.
4) Look for the “good people” - Although there are many shoppers who will be harried and downright nasty, there will be many who are kind and actually enjoying themselves. Look for them as bright spots in your day. Take a chance to laugh and joke with them and enjoy their enthusiasm. These are the people who will put the fun back in your day.
Black Friday is a big day for shoppers and retailers. It can be trying and very exhausting, but the bottom line is, it’s only a day and you will survive.
