About.com Retailing

From the Glossary: Cyber Monday

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 09:00:41 +0000

Cyber Monday and other retail terminology can be found in our retailing glossary. View the alphabetical index of retail trade terms, definitions, acronyms and common misspellings of frequently used retailing terminology.

From the Glossary: Cyber Monday originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at 09:00:41.

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Giving Guide for Retailers

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:00:59 +0000

One of the most frustrating events as a retailer I experienced came right around this very time of year. It was the day we had more people soliciting donations than actual customers!

Over time, I learned it was quite common for charities to come knocking during the holidays, but that first year in business we were struggling to keep our heads above water and I wondered if we would be asking for handouts very soon too.

These days I think much differently. Giving is a win-win situation for most retail stores. It is our chance to feel good about giving back to a supportive community while creating a positive public relation. If your retail business is looking to get in on some goodwill, use this guide to giving.

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Giving Guide for Retailers originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 09:00:59.

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How to Spot Fraudulent Returns

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 09:00:14 +0000

The days immediately following Christmas can be just as busy for some retailers as the holiday shopping period. Customers aren't perfect and Uncle Joe may not want yet another ugly tie. Unfortunately for retailers, the more we sell--the more returns we may receive.

Retail veterans may easily recognize return fraud. However, if your return policy is vague you may have no choice but to honor all (or most) returns. Even when you believe fraud is involved. Learn how to recognize return fraud and write a return policy to protect your business.

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How to Spot Fraudulent Returns originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 09:00:14.

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The Customer Is Always Right and Other Retailing Myths

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:00:17 +0000

No, the customer isn't always right. Learn how this and other retailing myths may have a negative impact on your retail store.

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The Customer Is Always Right and Other Retailing Myths originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Tuesday, November 10th, 2009 at 09:00:17.

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Never Too Late to Layway

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:00:44 +0000

If you've watched any prime time television this week, you've probably seen at least one K-Mart advertisement sporting their layaway program. Layaways at K-Mart, and other major retailers, have been around for a very long time.

The idea of paying for something in installments (with no interest) before you take it home can appeal to many shoppers who shy away from credit cards.

A few years ago, Wal-Mart announced it was ending its layaway program and many smaller retailers followed suit. If your store stopped layaways too, or if you never had a layaway policy, its not too late to start a program for the holidays.

Just clear some space in your stockroom, create a layaway policy and procedures, and then announce the service to your customers.

Does your store offer layaways? Share the pros and cons you've experienced in the comments below.

Never Too Late to Layway originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Monday, November 9th, 2009 at 09:00:44.

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Seasonal Retail Work

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:41:23 +0000

As traffic in retail stores increases this time of year, the retail worker can find many seasonal jobs available. If you're in need of retail employment during the holidays, Indeed.com has job listings from multiple sources across the nation.

Even if you're not in need of a job, consider browsing these listings to see how other retailers are utilizing their staff.

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Seasonal Retail Work originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Thursday, November 5th, 2009 at 07:41:23.

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From The Glossary: Black Friday

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 08:00:44 +0000

Black Friday and other retail terminology can be found in our retailing glossary. View the alphabetical index of retail trade terms, definitions, acronyms and common misspellings of frequently used retailing terminology.

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From The Glossary: Black Friday originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Monday, November 2nd, 2009 at 08:00:44.

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Attending Buying Events

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:10:43 +0000

As the holiday shopping season gets underway, retailers are already receiving invitations to upcoming trade shows and buying events. There are dealer shows, industry shows and an array of upcoming expos. Most retailers are thrilled� to have an opportunity to shop for their stores, preview new merchandise and network with others in their industry.

Attending a trade show can be an invaluable experience. However, if you aren't prepared, you may not take away from the event as much as you could. To get the most from attending a trade show or other buying event, you should have a strategy. Learn how to maximize your time with these trade show tips.

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Attending Buying Events originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Thursday, October 29th, 2009 at 09:10:43.

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Ease Cash Flow With Terms

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:00:25 +0000

Having an ample supply of inventory on hand during this holiday shopping season is critical to not only our store, but to every retailer who relies on last quarter sales to boost their bottom line. This is why we work all year at creating vendor relationships and set up payment terms, otherwise known as trade credit.

Establishing trade credit can help ease the cash flow for any retailer. When setting up payment terms, keep in mind that it isn't just the total amount owed that's significant but the ability of your retail business to repay the debt on time.

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Ease Cash Flow With Terms originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Monday, October 26th, 2009 at 09:00:25.

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From the Forums: Need a Funky Name

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 10:00:50 +0000

A reader writes:

Hi, I am looking to rename my nail and beauty business and would like something funky without the same tag lines as most beauty salons, example, salon, beauty bar, studio etc. I promote a very relaxing atmosphere with a large comfy couch/lounge for clients.

Can anyone think of something modern and different to the norm.

Do you think you can help name this business? Help us brainstorm a business name in the forum.

Related:

Tips for Naming a Business

From the Forums: Need a Funky Name originally appeared on About.com Retailing on Thursday, October 15th, 2009 at 10:00:50.

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