Thursday, March 21, marked another exciting opportunity for Downtown Rogers (DTR) business owners and staff to come together for the monthly Downtown Rogers Merchant Meet-Up. Hosted by the Rogers Lowell Chamber, this monthly gathering serves as a platform for fostering connections, exchanging ideas, and sharing best business practices. The March DTR (Downtown Rogers) Merchant Meet-Up at Onyx Coffee Lab offered a productive and insightful event, focusing on exceeding customer and team member expectations and the post-pandemic workforce.

Here's a breakdown of the key points discussed:

1. Soft Skills for Generation Z: Sammy Townsend emphasized the importance of teaching soft skills to Generation Z employees who are entering the workforce after experiencing a predominantly virtual environment during the pandemic. While their technical skills may be strong, their ability to cultivate interpersonal relationships and connect effectively in-person may need development.

   

2. Commitment to Customer Service: Kimberly Johnson highlighted Onyx Coffee Lab's commitment to excellent customer service by personalizing experiences and exceeding expectations. This involves actively listening to customers, addressing any issues promptly, and providing personalized responses, including handwritten notes.

   

3. Resource Recommendation: Johnson recommended reading Will Guidara's book, "Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect," which is part of the company culture and used in training all team members at Onyx Coffee Lab. This resource offers valuable insights into exceeding customer expectations and fostering meaningful connections.

   

4. Community Engagement: The monthly meet-up, hosted by the Rogers Lowell Chamber, serves as a platform for businesses in Downtown Rogers to foster connections, exchange ideas, and share best practices. Events like these are crucial for building a supportive business community and staying informed about industry trends and strategies.

5. Takeaways: The setting provided 30 people from 22 businesses networking opportunities and practical strategies for enhancing customer experiences and cultivating strong relationships, which are essential for businesses in any industry. Additionally, addressing the unique challenges faced by business owners in this new environment shows a proactive approach to overcoming obstacles and adapting to change.

Why it Matters: By fostering a supportive community and sharing best practices, events like these play a crucial role in helping businesses not only survive but thrive in the face of uncertainty. It's encouraging to see such a strong turnout and engagement from the local business community in Downtown Rogers.

Facilitating small businesses: The monthly gathering is not just a forum for discussion; it's a testament to the collective drive and determination of the Downtown Rogers community to cultivate success.

• Whether you're a business owner, manager, or staff member, your presence at the Downtown Rogers Merchant Meet-Up is welcomed and encouraged.

Convening downtown businesses:  RSVP to join us next month from 8:45 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Thursday, April 18 at House 1830, 106 W Elm Street, Suite 102 (enter through the 1st Street door.)  For those seeking more information about these meetings or wishing to get involved, please reach out to the Vice President of Downtown Development, Karen Wagaman, at [email protected]. Let's come together, share our insights, and continue to build a vibrant and prosperous downtown community. Learn more here.