Yes, the Holidays Are Stressful … but This Will Help

Published

7 years ago

November 3, 2016

(Our November print issue includes a feature story detailing “10 Steps to Last-Minute Holiday Success.” Today we bring you an excerpt explaining one of those steps: making work fun. Also check out yesterday’s excerpt on creating useful displays.)

Yes, the Holidays Are Stressful … but This Will Help

One key to a successful holiday season for jewelers is making work fun.

Consultant Andrea Hill says it’s natural to feel stressed during a season that for many in the jewelry business is crucial. But when owners and staff are stressed, customers can feel it, too. “If your store is a calm oasis of happy campers tending to the needs of customers, you’ll have much greater success.”

One way to inject a little mirth into your operations this quarter is to offer staff incentives for the highest average retail sale or the most add-ons, says Darci Aslage, business mentor for the Edge Retail Academy.

“We created a bingo game, and if they complete the bingo squares, they win a prize,” she says.

Or put gift cards or cash in a lot of different envelopes, and when you catch an employee doing something right, let them pick an envelope out of a Santa bag and win a prize — a $10 gift card to a local business or $50 in cash.

Britten Wolf, owner of BVW Jewelers in Reno, NV, says he takes in so many unusual repair items during the holidays — everything from candle holders and ornaments to shoes — that he offers the staff member who predicts the year’s oddest repair item a gift from Santa.

Also remember to be clear about what you’re trying to achieve as a team. Offer praise every time you see praiseworthy behaviors, be available to step in and help and be a calming, emotionally mature presence in the store. And if this isn’t you, then find a manager who is these things and step out of the way.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”