Four Ways to Make Special Orders Simple

Want to make it quick and easy for your customers to get a special order? Check out the following tips. To read more about special orders, be on the lookout for our feature story in the June issue of Hardware Retailing.

• Make it fast. While you may be at the mercy of your vendors as to how long it takes to get a product, make sure you’re not delaying the process. Place the order quickly.
• Train your staff to suggest special orders.Remind staff that helping a customer with a special order is not a hassle; it’s business as usual.  
• Communicate with the customer. Be upfront with customers about any delays in the order. Also communicate with staff members so they know what’s going on with a special order.
• Bring it into inventory.Listen to what consumers want; it may turn into something you want to stock.