Make it fun to do business

Tony Grech and Paul Degrazia, co-owners of Grecko Printing in Plymouth, Michigan, make it a point to create an upbeat and energetic atmosphere for their clients and their employees. Because of the fun vibe the owners give off, Grecko Printing is by far one of my favorite businesses to visit.

When you walk into the lobby, it is alive with activity, sound and eye-popping color displays. Everything from the mascot — a live gecko by the name of Grecko, to their clients’ laughter that echoes throughout the building — signifies vitality and fun.

People want to go somewhere that’s fun and enjoyable. You can provide an opportunity for them to experience the pleasure they are seeking within your gift shop.

Tony, Paul and crew do their best to make doing business at Grecko Printing a pleasant experience for everyone who comes through the door.

People want to go somewhere that’s fun and enjoyable. You can provide an opportunity for them to experience the pleasure they are seeking within your gift shop.

Laughter is one of the few languages that is spoken by every human being. When your customers are met by cheerful, personable and positive employees, chances are those customers will enjoy spending their money and want to come back and do it again and again.

Customers take personally the type of service they receive. If they receive poor service, it can easily be interpreted as a form of personal rejection.

Conversely, if a customer receives great service, it can be interpreted as a sign of respect and acceptance.
When a person experiences joy or laughter, endorphins — a natural morphine-like substance that is produced within the human body — are released from the brain.

They create a euphoric-like state that allows a person to experience physical and mental feelings of pleasure. A customer can actually experience a release of endorphins from the service they receive at your store.

When you hear from customers that they like shopping in your store, recognize that you were responsible for creating those good feelings.

Let the fun side of your personality show in your store and encourage others to do the same. Your customers, employees and co-workers will appreciate and follow your example.

To get the ball rolling, hold a meeting with your team and brainstorm ways your gift shop, souvenir store or boutique can create a more fun and upbeat atmosphere for employees and customers. Begin implementing those ideas as soon as possible.

Here’s a little poem for inspiration:

Start filling your shop with smiles

and your customers will come for miles.

Ahh, but alas,

if it’s a frown upon your face,

your customers are sure to shop

some other place.

— Tom Borg