By Jimmy DeGroot, Train Retail | August 07, 2025 Centurion Jewelry News
Appleton, WI–Sometimes the most valuable training doesn’t happen in a formal meeting—it happens during the real-life moments when we’re setting up the store, brewing coffee, and dusting displays. That’s why today, I want to encourage you to turn your setup time into productive conversation time.
Let’s be honest: not every store has the luxury to sit down for lengthy training sessions every morning. So why not feed our team’s energy and accountability with smart, easy-to-use dialogue starters while we’re getting ready for the day?
Start with simple questions like:
- Who came in yesterday, and what were they looking for?
- What new items are in the case today?
- What’s your goal for today—sales, outreach, or follow-up?
- What’s something great that happened yesterday?
These questions open the door to stories, wins, and shared focus—and that boosts morale and performance at the same time.
And yes… it’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas! Ask, “What am I excited to sell this holiday season?” Let the answers spur early outreach and renewed excitement over merchandise—new or forgotten.
As leaders, it’s our job to keep the conversation directed, yet fun. Encourage discussions that inspire action and build camaraderie. Use this time to reinforce follow-up, promote new product awareness, and prep for the day’s goals. You’re not just setting up cases—you’re setting up success.
So tomorrow morning, as you’re unlocking the doors and flipping the lights on, toss out a question or two. Watch how those little moments of dialogue fuel a stronger team and a better day.
Here’s to productive mornings and powerful conversations!
James (Jimmy) DeGroot is a professional jewelry sales and operations trainer from the jeweler’s side of the counter. Having been in management and the jewelry business for over 20 years, Jimmy offers weekly training to jewelers nationwide via the Train Retail website. Jimmy and his partner Kyle Bullock help jewelry stores grow their profits and their people to fulfill their greater purpose! We do it through one-on-one business coaching, sales training, and leadership development. Contact Jimmy at jimmy@trainretail.com or call 920-492-1191.