Tape in-store classes and demonstrations for all associates to see. Record store associates discussing their departments or new merchandise. Video cameras are also great to take to trade shows because you can bring back information and uses for any new products that you purchase. When it comes to training their team, Don and Jane Marski, owners of Hannah's Home Accents in Antioch, Illinois are two very aggressive trainers. In addition to traditional training meetings, they move things out onto the sales floor once a month to allow associates to take an educational tour of the store.
Associates see what's in, what's out, what's new, hot, and happening.
Ultimately, you'll find it necessary to assess your level of service competence compared to the competition in your market. Tell the associate to come as close to purchasing it as possible, without actually doing so. Have him or her ask a salesperson for help. Have the associate ask lots of questions about the item or its uses. The associate only has twenty minutes to complete the exercise.