Questions to ask customers at your table
Engaging with potential customers at your craft fair table can be highly beneficial, but it’s crucial to strike a balance and avoid being pushy. If you feel nervous about interacting with visitors, it’s helpful to prepare a few open-ended questions that can initiate conversations with them.
To create a welcoming and valued atmosphere, I highly recommend acknowledging people who come up to your table, however, there’s no need to hover over them or follow them around as they browse. Instead, aim to add a human touch to your products, making them more relatable and appealing.
The Questions
Here are some effective open-ended questions that can help initiate conversations:
• What brings you to the craft fair today?
• Which types of crafts are you most interested in?
• Do you have a specific craft or artisan you’re looking for today?
• What kind of crafts do you enjoy creating?
• Have you attended other craft fairs before? If so, which ones and what did you like about them?
• What factors do you consider when purchasing a handmade item?
• Are you searching for a particular gift or something for yourself?
• Do you have any specific colors or styles in mind for the item you’re seeking?
• Have you ever been inspired to start new crafts or DIY projects after attending craft fairs in the past?
• Do you have any questions about the crafting process or materials used in any of the items here at the fair?
• What inspired you to visit this craft fair today?
• Have you discovered any unique or interesting items at the fair so far?
• Do you have a favourite craft or hobby?
• Have you ever attempted making your own crafts?
And so.....
I recommend either memorising or jotting down a few of these questions on a sticky note. This way, you’ll have them readily available during the event. The advantage is that you can use them repeatedly throughout the day since you’ll encounter different people.
Another effective ice breaker is offering genuine compliments. If you genuinely appreciate something, like someone’s earrings, let them know. Most people appreciate compliments, and this often leads to interesting stories about where they acquired the item. Genuine compliments have always worked well for me in initiating conversations.
Have a lovely day!
Love, Katy x
