A Yard Sale Seller's Guide to Good Customer Service

Everyone expects good customer service, whether they are buying a loaf of bread or a new dress. If you are hosting a yard sale, buyers will be expecting "service with a smile" from sellers. Sellers, in turn, need to practice good customer service skills. As a garage/yard sale veteran, I have seen good and bad examples of customer service. I have found through personal experience that good customer service keeps the same people coming back again and again when you host future yard sales.

Remember to Greet Customers

Yard sale sellers should display the same professional attitude as retail store workers, and that starts with a smile and courteous greeting when a customer approaches. Granted, not everyone is going to return your cheerful "good morning" at 7:00am with a similar greeting, but the fact that you have put in the effort will not go unnoticed.

A simple greeting can also open the way to further conversation, as you help customers find just what they are looking for. Even if they do not buy anything, they will remember your display of good manners.

Mention Your Bottom Line - Politely!

Not everyone who comes along to your yard sale will treat you or your property with respect. Even if you are determined to take no lower than $50 for your bookcase, there is bound to be someone who comes along who is only willing to offer a paltry $10 instead.

The key is to politely mention your bottom line without giving in to your feelings. Just say "I will not accept anything less than $50. It cost more than twice that amount when I bought it in XYZ five years ago" and then leave it at that.

Acknowledge Repeat Customers

Who doesn't like to be remembered? Most people are delighted when someone remembers them. The same is true when you are hosting a new yard sale and you spot a customer who came along to your last yard sale in the spring.

If you see a repeat customer that you remember well, ask them how they are getting on with their new coffee maker that they bought from you and if there is anything else you can help them with as they browse. Although there is no guarantee that your repeat customers will buy anything else from you, acknowledging them will put them in a good mood and enhance your day.

Yard sale sellers need to use a variety of skills to attract customers, but a lot can also be said about displaying good customer service. Not only does it make potential buyers feel good about themselves, but you will also feel a greater sense of achievement and satisfaction if you are polite to people who stop by.