Shoplifting Training | Shrinkage in Retail

All retailers experience shoplifting, which is why our industry experts recommend being as informed and prepared as possible. Learn how to train your employees on how to identify and deal with shoplifters in your small business!

[FREE GUIDE] How to Prevent Shoplifting and Employee Theft: https://www.posnation.com/guide-minim...

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TRANSCRIPT:
Shrinkage is something that all retailers face.

Even the most seasoned small business owners will encounter shoplifting, employee theft, and inventory loss for reasons out of their control.

In this vide, we’ll teach you how to train your employees about shoplifting.

When training a new team member on external theft, the first thing you want to cover is how to identify a shoplifter.

It’s important to note that shoplifters should be identified by ACTIONS, not appearance. Your team should never assume a visitor is stealing based on what they look like.

Instead, encourage your employees to look out for some of the following red flags — which are common for shoplifters:
Entering the store in a large group and splitting up…
Carrying large empty bags or wearing huge clothing…
Avoiding customer service and eye contact…
Keeping an eye on staff — rather than looking at products…
Grabbing multiple items without paying attention to sizes or colors…
and lingering in one part of the store — especially near an exit.

If an employee notices someone acting strange and believes they’re attempting to steal, the best first step is to give them exceptional customer service.

Your team should keep an eye on the person in question, over-communicate with them, and stay nearby. Great customer service will usually turn off a shoplifter, and encourage them to leave before swiping anything.

When it comes to things your employees SHOULDN’T do, the first one is directly accuse someone of stealing.

This can cause a lot of problems for your business if the accusation is false, so it’s best to handle the situation with EXTRA friendliness and assistance.

In the event that a shoplifter IS seen stealing, employees should never try to grab or take something back, or chase down someone who runs out of the store with stolen product.

You can decide how you want to handle situations that do escalate, but be sure your team knows that they should never put themselves at risk.

The best course of action for employees, especially if they’re feeling uncomfortable, is to tell a manager when they’ve witnessed theft.

At the end of the day, having a well-trained team can help deter shoplifting, but don’t be discouraged if and when it does happen to your store.