Forgetting Organizational Tools
A good point of sale system doesn’t just ring up sales and read credit cards. It should offer users the chance to not only collect, but also organize data as it comes in. Some of these tools need to be given permissions, or require additional setup upon installation. Once they have the necessary permissions, organizational tools can do a lot of customer data legwork independently. This sets up the system to work as a rudimentary customer service station, which is imperative for small businesses.
Other common POS mistakes come from habitual organizational failings. If your cashiers have options about how and where to store receipts and customer comments, make sure they know how these features work. Default isn’t always, or even often, the best and more efficient option.
Failing to Multitask
Again, don’t mistake your POS for a simple cash drawer and scanner. Modern systems allow for a single user to fill multiple roles, managing everything from sales to payroll. If you don’t make use of these features, however, you’re throwing away money. Every storefront has slow times, and too many small businesses make costly POS mistakes during these hours. Instead of folding and refolding the same clothes in your boutique, you could be double-checking hourly pay and commissions for your employees.
As mentioned above, most POS systems can function as limited customer service kiosks. Unfortunately, all too many users waste this opportunity to consolidate roles. Anyone with regular system access should be able to address issues like returns, complaints, and shipping questions. If your cashiers have to hand off these responsibilities, you are not properly utilizing your software.
POS Mistakes Concerning Security
Consumers have seen far too many security slip-ups in recent years, and it has cost many of them personally. Identity theft is on the rise, and cyber security is more important than ever. The greatest POS mistakes involve security, and all it takes is one criminal looking at the right network to turn your bad habits into your downfall. Here are a few of the most common oversights and errors. First of all, if you want to keep your business and your customers safe, keep your hardware protected with security software. Never use an open network to send information. Don’t forget to encrypt. If you can remember those three points, you’ll be ahead of the vast majority of your competition, and that should be a scary thought.
Don’t let simple POS mistakes hold your business back. They may seem innocent, but they can cost you vital revenue. At worst, they could open the door to hackers. Avoid these mistakes by taking extra precautions, using your software to its fullest potential, and always keeping an open for the chance to get more done.
