EDITOR’S CORNER

In this issue, Larry Schneiderman, CEO of the six-store Minnesota-based retail chain Schneiderman’s Furniture advises Furniture World readers to never let a shopper pass within eight feet without smiling and welcoming. He calls it the ‘Eight-Foot Rule’. Smiling is a practice that’s as important as checking your retail performance indicators (article by David McMahon). It’s as useful as sweating the retail details (article by Hal McClamma). And, it’s as profitable looking beyond the numbers to base selling initiatives on a noble purpose (article by Joe Capillo).

Thich Nhat Hanh says, “Sometimes your joy is the source of your smile, but sometimes your smile can be the source of your joy.” It’s true that a smile can be contagious. It signals to customers that they are welcome, and that they enjoy their jobs. Some folks come by their smiles naturally. Others, need reminders that life need not be so serious, introspective or sullen.

Here’s a suggestion. Do a google search on the “science of smiling”. Make it a topic for a sales meeting. Teach Larry’s Eight Foot Rule, and remind your employees as well as yourself to wear one whenever possible.