Company Blog

Great Choice!

by Adam Zack — April 19, 2023

They were words of affirmation and approval by someone “in the know” that made me really feel great about my selection.

Did you realize that compliments generate revenue?

A couple weeks ago we were out to dinner and when the server got around to me I gave her my choice (I don’t even remember what I ordered – it was the service that was memorable) and she said – very sincerely while looking me in the eye – “Excellent choice. That’s one of my very favorites.” They were words of affirmation and approval by someone “in the know” that made me really feel great about my selection. Upon reflection, she probably does that with everyone who looks like they will be paying the bill, but even if that is true, it didn’t matter. Those complimentary words resulted in a relaxed, satisfied dinner before the food even came and definitely a bigger tip. If more restaurant servers – from fast casual to fine dining – could master the art of the compliment, we’d all be happier diners and they’d make more in tips. Pray tell, you ask, how does this even relate to the grocery industry? Well, I’ll tell you, and thank you for giving me the leeway to take such a circuitous route to the point. You have things that are your favorites. Lots of them. So do your employees. You even have some second, third and fourth favorites. It applies to nearly every category – meat, seafood, cheese, deli, wine, booze, produce, bakery, specialty foods, ice cream – even pet food. So when you or your cashiers, service clerks or grocery clerks see a customer buying one of their favorite things, teach them to share their love of that product with them. That personal affirmation and compliment to their good taste in their selection immediately makes them feel good about shopping with you. It’s something personal you have in common with a stranger who is supporting you and they feel great about spending their hard-earned dough with you. It works especially well with higher end items, things that may be a little bit of a splurge. And you know how the conversation ends? “I’m Adam. Next time you’re in, please let me know how you liked it.” Boom, great customer service.