Nearly every business owner has experienced that one special event, that one new product launch, or that flash sale that just didn’t go as successfully as anticipated. During the aftermath of the event-gone-wrong, the store owner spends ridiculous amounts of time and resources trying to figure out exactly what happened, only to find it was a general lack of awareness. Customer after customer says, “Oh! I would have loved to attend/buy/participate! I just didn’t know!”

Frustrating, isn’t it?

What if there was a simple, on-demand method to make sure customers are always aware of valuable information? Enter real-time announcements.

Real-time, on-demand announcements are targeted to shoppers and visitors who already visit the business. That means they areat the very leastinitially interested in what the business has to offer and are likely tuned in to listen to announcements as they air over the speakers. However, as is the case with most things, there is a science to the madness. Or, in this case, a strategy behind the announcements.

Well, here’s the good newsbelow are 5 solid real-time announcements that, done correctly, can make sure that “I had a party and nobody came” feeling never strikes the store again.

Real-Time Educational Announcements You Should Add to Your In-Store Audio Strategy

     1. In-store Contests, Events or Classes

A little competition is good for the soulbut only if interested individuals participate. Using in-store announcements will ensure customers know if a contest, a drawing, or perhaps an opportunity to answer a trivia question for a prize is coming up. It’s also the perfect time to advertise upcoming events like parties, specialty tastings, or new class offerings, depending on the type of business. For example, a gym can announce the start of a new fitness class, a liquor store can advertise beer tastings, and a retail store can announce a special anniversary party. If a customer is already in the store, it is the perfect time to let them know about the event and garner even more participation.

     2. Waiting Room Announcements

There’s no better time to clue people in on information than when they are doing nothing but passing the time in a waiting room or standing in line. While they may be browsing on their phones, announcements will interrupt their trance to inform them of their wait time, which means they’ll likely be perking up for more messages. Use announcements for wait time alerts, but also use them to your business’ advantage. Customers are tuned in, so let them know about upcoming events, specials, or even current activities taking place at the store’s location.

     3. In-Store Specials and Offers

In-store announcements offer the perfect opportunity to call attention to special deals or run flash sales by creating a custom-made announcement for the store. For retailers, tailored messages can help to move a specific product. Announcements can also allow patrons of a grocery store to learn aboutand hopefully trya new chef’s special. That means more sales and less waste.

     4. Helpful Digital Tips

From websites to social media, today’s businesses are investing time, money, and resources into building a presence in the digital space. One way to drive customers to those sites for coupons or promos is through in-store announcements. When a customer is already in a brick and mortar business, they are perfectly attuned to an announcement about a special offer that’s valid if they “Like” the business on Facebook. Customers can then immediately visit the website while still in the store to receive the coupon. Talk about instant gratification!

     5. New Product Information

What’s the point of launching a new product if no one knows about it? Or, what if customers aren’t aware of a new element that makes an existing product or service even better? In-store audio announcements can provide business owners with an easy way to educate shoppers about new products as they walk past the shelves. And that can lead to better economics.

Regardless of the content, in-store announcements should have the right tone and be valuable to the target customer. They should focus on sharing key information in an appealing way to keep customers engaged.

Interested in learning more? Request a demo of Vibenomics today and learn how you can start creating on-brand music and messaging for your in-store customers.