The Top 5
Fundamentals are important in business and we believe that a coffee shop can be successful by focusing on some basic rules. Get these rules right at all times and you are very likely to be a happy coffee shop owner.
Sometimes you could do with the view of different people and this means that you need to be very open to criticism. Sit amongs your customers once in a while and do your best to get their true opinion about your business.
The Top 5
1) Location & Look - convenient location, design & cleanliness
A coffee shop needs a good location, it's that simple. A lot of reasons why people visit coffee shop is related to impulse buying. The smell and welcome look of a coffee shop on a convenient location will really help.
2) Atmosphere - Music & Temperature
The atmosphere in a coffee shop is mainly determined by the music, temperature and amount of people. The music and temperature are easy to control. Choose music that is comfortable to listen to and can be played well at a low volume.
High temperatures will cause customers to stay longer and cold customers will make people feel uncomfortable. Try to find a good balance in between and people will take of their coats and really enjoy their coffee.
3) Quality Products - quality and value
You simply can not go cheap on everything. However, you do not need to go super expensive either. A good presentation and good cooking usually do the job. Be inventive with food and offer something different as well. Be proud of what you sell and show this to your customers.
4) Excellent Customer Service - friendliness & speed
Do we need to explain this?
Yes we do! Because people often forget about this. Or better, they know but don't audit the customer service. It can be very difficult to look through the eyes of your customers but this is extremely important. Visiting other coffee shops every so often is really important and can make you realize how well your customer service is.
Simple things like eye contact, remembering names and orders or starting a small chat can be the difference between expanding your business and closing your doors for good.
5) Good Staff Management Skills - motivation & training
Staff are very important in coffee shops. Your staff will only work hard and look happy when they are actually happy. Lead by example and be open about everything. It is very important for staff to realize that you are running a business. Explain how much money you loose because of wastage and teach your staff about profits and costs.
Get your staff involved with running the business and reward them when things are going well and they deserve it. People work for money, not just because they like you so much.