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Go For the Gold
I enjoyed watching the Olympics last month — the athleticism, the enthusiasm, the motivation and the pride. Every athlete there, whether finishing in first place or last, was there because they dedicated themselves, worked hard and were motivated for success.
The same can be said for successful retailers, as it takes dedication, hard work and motivation to be successful with sales. So while you might not be able to figure skate or master the luge, there are some things you can learn from the Olympians:
- Others Can Do What You Do — you just have to do it better. Most people have tried to ski, but most people aren’t talented enough to win competitions and races. Similarly, most retailers sell the same types of products. It’s up to you to do it better than everyone else.
- Hard Work Will Pay Off — but there are no shortcuts. The athletes that make it to the level required to even qualify for the Olympics have been preparing for years. Being talented is a great start, but there is a lot of hard work and perseverance involved in being successful — in sports or in sales. There will be setbacks, but they can be used as stepping-stones and not barriers.
- You Have To Have a Passion for What You Do — it shows. Athletes practice when they don’t feel like practicing, log long hours that emotionally and physically drain them — all because they love what they do. Even on days when you want to escape, take pride in your store and your products and remember that customers notice your mood.
True, it won’t bring a gold medal. But it may bring prized profits. |
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Amanda Foote
The Science Shop Fashionista
Science Museum Oklahoma
What makes your store unique?
The Science Shop is not just a museum store, it is boutique style shopping. We carry fun and educational toys and gifts that are hip and trendy that also reflect the museum’s brand as a whole. The Science Shop is repositioning itself to be a shopping destination and an alternative to major retail chains.
What is your retail background?
I spent a year with Target in Houston as a store executive, learning about presentation, branding and customer service. After that, I worked for eight years in the banking industry for various financial institutions before coming to Science Museum Oklahoma and The Science Shop. I took over The Science Shop in 2008.
What is the most popular product you sell?
Otto-matic, Science Museum Oklahoma’s mascot, is in heavy demand in The Science Shop. He appears on everything from key chains to T-shirts and is even his own stuffed doll. The Science Shop features an amazing line of science kits by Elmer’s that is extremely popular, as well as smaller items such as Robot Hands and Claws from Toysmith, rock candy and astronaut ice cream. We have developed a unique line of T-shirts that are designed specifically for The Science Shop, so they are truly one of a kind.
What trade shows do you attend?
We attend Toy Fair, MSA conferences and Dallas Markets.
What is your favorite part about working in this industry?
I love seeing the look on our customer’s faces when they come into The Science Shop. Science Museum Oklahoma is a hands-on museum, so The Science Shop is an extension of that. The kids run around, touch everything and exclaim about what they see. The adults are amazed that the toys they remember from childhood are back with improvements and upgrades. Our goal is for The Science Shop to be the cherry on top of their great visit at Science Museum Oklahoma.
What advice do you have for other retailers?
Know your niche and develop your brand. Don’t be afraid to make your museum store more than just a gift shop. |
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How would you gage consumer interest in U.S.-made product?
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Cool Jewels Black and White
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Cool Jewels/Phillips Intl.
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Something New Popped Up
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