How to Strengthen Your Store’s Edge This Holiday Season

Why is associate knowledge so important during the holidays?

As the holiday shopping season ramps up, competition for customer attention intensifies. Many retailers focus on décor, displays, and promotions, but the real differentiator is knowledgeable store associates. When associates understand the products they sell, they can help customers find exactly what they need, improve satisfaction, and boost sales.

Customers today often arrive already informed about products through online research and reviews. Associates who can add value with deeper product knowledge, clear explanations, and personalized recommendations make a lasting impression that encourages repeat visits and long-term loyalty.
 

What do customers expect from the in-store experience?

Holiday shoppers expect speed, accuracy, and expert advice. They want associates who can bridge the gap between online research and in-store interaction. According to retail analysts, customers place high value on human connections when buying complex products like PCs.

According to this Retail Dive article, to meet these expectations, associates should be:

• Confident in explaining product differences and benefits
   
• Skilled at identifying each customer’s needs
   
• Able to provide quick, accurate answers about availability and compatibility
   
• Trained to upsell or cross-sell products that add value to the purchase
  
   

How can training improve customer satisfaction and sales?

Investing in associate education creates measurable results for managers and retailers. Well-trained associates are more efficient, deliver stronger customer experiences, and drive higher sales performance. Training helps them understand not only product details but also how to listen to customers, make recommendations, and close sales confidently.

A culture of learning also reduces turnover, improves morale, and creates consistency across teams during the busiest time of the year.
 

What tools are available to help train associates effectively?

The Intel® Retail Edge Program provides a proven platform to help associates build knowledge and confidence in selling Intel-powered devices. The Program offers:

• Engaging online and mobile training modules
   
• Up-to-date content on Intel products and partner technologies
   
• Quizzes, rewards, and community features that keep learning fun
   
• On-demand access so associates can train anytime and anywhere

Managers who encourage their teams to participate in the Program see stronger product understanding, more successful upselling, and better customer experiences across the store.
 

What can managers do now to prepare for the holiday season?

To get your team ready for peak shopping traffic:

1. Identify skill gaps early and encourage targeted learning.
    
2. Use incentives to motivate participation in training.
    
3. Reinforce key learnings during daily huddles or team meetings.
    
4. Recognize and reward associates who demonstrate exceptional knowledge or customer service.

When every associate is prepared to deliver expert guidance, your store becomes a trusted destination for shoppers looking for the right Intel-powered device this holiday season.
 

Ensure Your Associates are Well-Trained for the Holiday Season

Discover how the Intel® Retail Edge Program can help you prepare your associates for success. Visit retailedge.intel.com/50/manager.

For more insights, read the full Retail Dive article here:
https://www.retaildive.com/news/retail-holiday-store-experience-customer-service/802749/