Paula, browsers in a retail situation can become shoppers if they see what they need or want and feel welcome and respected. Treat everyone like guests at a party at your home. Be cheerful, gracious and welcoming. Invite them to look around to their heart's content. You're there to help them if they need it or have questions.
Some people may be regular browsers because they like to look at all the eye candy but never be customers. They may become excellent advocates if they tell other people about the store and describe it in a positive way.
So, interacting with browsers is different than networking but based on the same principles of courtesy and respect.
Phil Stella, MindSpring Networking Editor and president, Effective Training & Communication, Inc.
