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Sales displays may be too much or too little to attract a broad range of consumers.Martin Poole/Photodisc/Getty Images
Observe the behavior of customers in the shop or place of business. If the business has displays or other sales set-ups, observe the reactions of customers or potential customers as they approach and view the display. Make note of who actually asks about or purchases the product on display, such as women more than men, age groups, demographics, socioeconomic level, and so forth. Some displays do not attract all customers and if a display seems to appeal primarily to one or two groups but not a variety of people, this could require adjustment. - 2
Monitoring sales and inventory can help track consumer behavior.Jupiterimages/Polka Dot/Getty Images
Monitor sales of all products and services. Most businesses find that one or two products become "top sellers" while everything else is fairly even and constant. Consider reasons why the top selling products are top selling products. Do consumers purchase them more during certain times of year or are they top sellers all year round? - 3
Give customers a three- or four-question survey card with room to offer comments, prestamped to mail back or bring in next time.Stockbyte/Retrofile/Getty Images
Talk to the consumers and encourage employees to talk to the consumers as well. Some of the best knowledge for a business can be gained simply by asking customers what they think, like, dislike or want. Explain to the customers who have a few minutes to spare that their input will greatly help improve business and consider offering a coupon or special rate for their time and participation in a survey or discussion of products and services. Place surveys in bags with purchases to be filled out later. - 4
Consult with staff and employees to gather everyone's input for business growth and improvements.Jupiterimages/BananaStock/Getty Images
Hold regular business meetings to gather input from all staff and employees, utilizing the data collected from observations and questionnaires, and planning changes to improve customer satisfaction and business. Consumer behavior can be a valuable tool to large and small businesses, regardless of the products or services provided. Understanding what the consumers want and meeting those needs will keep consumers coming back and keep the business prosperous.
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