Ever walk into a business and feel like you aren’t welcome? More often than not, a greeting from an employee can change that feeling immediately. That’s where the 10-4 Rule comes into play. The rule is as follows:

Any time you’re within 10 feet of someone, make solid eye contact and smile, and when within 4 feet, greet them verbally.

Although it may seem like it only applies to walk-in businesses, like retail stores or restaurants, it’s just as important in your office or warehouse, and should be implemented among your staff, vendors, and mail carriers, too.

A verbal greeting could be anything from a “Hello!” to a “What brought you in today?” and with customers wearing masks currently, it’s even more important to acknowledge them. A mask may stop you from seeing someone’s smile, but you can still make eye contact and greet them verbally.

We encourage you to start applying the 10-4 Rule with your team. It’s clear, simple, and easy to teach, and can set a positive tone for everyone’s experience in your business.

Learn more about the rule at: zingtrain.com/blog/strong-systems-to-greet-customers-celebrate-10-4-day-with-zingtrain.

This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s September 2020 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.