Howl Downtown — Local services in Bayfield

I wanted to share some feedback from my visit today, and I truly hope it’s received in the spirit of support and growth.

As a fellow small business owner with multiple retail locations, I understand how much energy and heart go into creating a great customer experience. That’s why I’m sharing this not as a complaint, but as a coaching moment I hope will be helpful for your team.

During our visit, my group wasn’t greeted at all upon entering—and we noticed several other customers came in and were also not acknowledged. As someone who has worked in customer service for years, I know firsthand how impactful a simple greeting can be. It sets the tone, makes people feel seen and welcomed, and often determines how long they stay (and how much they spend).

I gently offered some feedback in person to the team member at checkout and did so with kindness and respect. Unfortunately, her response was a bit defensive, which was disappointing—because it truly came from a place of wanting to help, not criticize.

I share this because greeting customers and showing appreciation for them is, in my opinion, one of the most foundational principles in retail. It costs nothing but makes all the difference.

Wishing you continued success and hoping this note helps inspire a deeper conversation within your team. We’re all constantly learning—and growing together in this world of...

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