Getting started in retail is an exciting process. But it can feel overwhelming, too. Fortunately, there is a wealth of sound advice and ideas out there to help. Here are four recommendations to help get your retail adventure off to a strong start.

Learn the basics of visual merchandising

Look around – in person and online

Not all of us are born with the creativity gene. But no matter – you’re surrounded by great examples of retail displays. Just step into other stores and look around. Make notes on layout ideas and displays that appeal to you. Or not. Even if the store’s merchandise is quite different from yours, you can easily adapt great ideas to your products and clientele.

While you’re there, notice the sales associates, too. Are they friendly and helpfully engaged with customers? Make more notes, and use them in your own employee training.

Then take a tour of the internet. Pinterest, retail blogs, etc. are replete with retail store ideas. What do you see that could work for you?

The more ideas you stockpile, the better. That's because one of the most important keys to retail success is freshness. Once people have seen your display, their eyes will slip right past it. New merchandise and new display arrangements create a sense of intrigue, keeping customers focused on what you have to offer.

Don’t assume “custom” means “too expensive”

The display fixtures you choose literally set the stage for everything else about your store. They can give your space a branded, cohesive look. They can draw shoppers into your store and lead them through your displays. It’s easy to find ready-made fixtures of all types. But custom design fits like a glove, both physically and aesthetically. It underscores what makes your store special. Perhaps most important, custom-designed fixtures ensure a better customer experience.

Many design options and materials are more affordable than you might think, so don’t overlook this opportunity. Besides, when you consult a custom manufacturer of retail store displays, you not only get one-of-a-kind fixtures, you get professional advice from people with years of experience. That’s priceless.

People complete the picture

Just as top-selling displays invite customer interaction, live sales people are vital for other types of customer interaction. Who you hire can make all the difference between success and failure. Once they're hired, they need training. Bob Phibbs, The Retail Doctor, has some excellent tips on retail training.

Still excited? It’s time to put these recommendations to work, so you can get started with top-selling retail store displays.