Whenever I read an article that comes with an intriguing headline like “At What Age are You Happiest?” I skim several paragraphs down to get the answer. The early lines are often just setup. And that’s exactly how this column came to be — the result of my setup: procrastination.
Procrastination is a real issue in retail, especially when you’re constantly managing one crisis after another. The urgent often overrides the important. Things like maintenance, signage, lighting, props and clutter all influence how your store looks and functions — but because they don’t usually scream for attention, they get pushed aside.
Let’s fix that. Starting now.
Create a maintenance calendar
Step one: Make a real calendar. Write out key maintenance and upkeep tasks, assign them and pick a due date. A whiteboard with names, tasks and checkboxes can make a big difference. Accountability is key.
Maintenance: What you can’t ignore
Something that is overlooked can make or break your image as well as your daily operations. When things are dirty, broken or uncared for, customers will assume you treat your products the same way.
Mechanical: Don’t wait for a meltdown
- Schedule annual HVAC inspections (no one likes a hot showroom in summer).
- Test smoke, carbon dioxide detectors and fire extinguishers yearly.
- Check plumbing for leaks and drainage issues.
- Have an electrician inspect your wiring and test every outlet.
- Review your security system every six months.
- Inspect basements or storage areas quarterly for pests (masks encouraged).
- Keep the parking lot clean and safe — fix trip hazards immediately.
- Wash or repaint your building when it starts to look tired.
- Outdoor signage should be clean, visible and fully lit.
Signage: Less is more
Signage has a shelf life. I once visited a store that had nine signs hanging in the entry — only one was current. Designate someone to review signs monthly and empower them to remove and replace as needed. Also, check the outdoor signage and make sure it’s well-lit, clean and visible. The outdoor sign is your on-the-street advertising. It is a reflection of your image and brand for better or worse. Make it better.
Fixtures: No sentimental attachments
If it’s wobbly, broken or collecting dust in the back, get rid of it. Seriously. Find someone not emotionally attached to your old displays and have them clear out what’s just taking up space.
Lighting: Dead bulbs kill the vibe
Assign one person to check lights regularly and replace any that are out within 24 hours. Dark corners mean an unprofessional atmosphere. Outdoor lighting and signage count too. You want your store to say “trustworthy.” One of my favorite fails was seeing a Toyota dealership’s sign with just the “yo” lit up.
Props: They tell your story
Props help customers picture themselves using the product. Clean rubber duckies, fresh towels, thriving plants — they all matter. Assign a quarterly prop inspection and cleanup. If something looks sad, toss it.
Clutter: A weekly mission
Things pile up in every store. Assign one person a week to clear clutter on the showroom floor. It will make a huge difference in how you and your customers perceive the shopping experience. Recycle, donate or trash it; just don’t ignore it.
Delegate or drown
You now have at least five roles to assign — and that’s before bringing in a plumber or electrician. You don’t need a huge team, but you do need help. Find three trustworthy employees, divide the responsibilities and get them on the whiteboard.
You’ll feel better, your store will look better and your customers will notice.
P.S. In case you were wondering, the happiest age? Our 70s.