With consumers continuing to watch their budgets and those who are spending more freely again, becoming increasingly selective about where they put their money down, retailers and restaurant operators must double their efforts to keep customers coming back. Here are a few strategies for moving in that direction:

1. Go the extra mile when people least expect it. Consumers expect—and in many cases, demand—special, often personalized treatment at the most expensive stores and restaurants, but you can garner good results with this tactic no matter what “price category” your establishment is in. For example, if you’re a restaurant owner, take the time to notice if patrons have ordered one of your daily specials. Engage them in conversation about it—and perhaps send over an extra side dish or dessert to top off the meal. If you’re a retailer, talk to shoppers if they’re buying something that touches you in some way—for instance, a card you would have sent to a friend or relative or a book you enjoyed. Add a little perk—perhaps, another free card or a bookmark. These small gestures go a long way to cultivating repeat business.
2. Get them talking.  Holding a unique event or promotion is a great way to generate buzz and get customers into your store or restaurant not just for that particular occurrence, but again and again to see what else you may have up your sleeve. One gift retailer we know held a Halloween promotion and party in which she challenged customers to scour her store’s displays for images of 13 dead famous people. Those shoppers who successfully completed the challenge won a small prize. And don’t forget—leverage social media to get the word out about your plans.
3. Face the truth. In today’s retail and hospitality climate, it’s essential to earn customers’ trust by asking them not just what they like about your establishment, but what they don’t like, and then fixing it. See a customer browsing, but not buying? Invite him or her to sit down and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea with you before easing into a conversation.

A good point of sale system acts as a linchpin for gathering additional information about customers that will almost certainly help you in putting together special promotions, changing your merchandise mix or menu and other moves aimed at cultivating a loyal clientele. pcAmerica’s Restaurant Pro Express and Cash Register Express POS software rank among these systems. To find out more, visit www.pcAmerica.com