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Step 1
As the customer enters the store, make eye contact with him, give him a smile, and say "Hello." This tells the potential shoplifter that you've seen his face clearly and you are aware of his presence in the store, which makes him less likely to swipe items from your shelves.
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Step 2
Make your presence known around the customer. You can do this by recovering, or fronting, shelves around the area where your customer is located. Doing this will give a potential shoplifter the impression that he is being watched and that an attempt at stealing is too risky.
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Step 3
If you see the customer lingering around the store, approach him with a smile and offer assistance. Even if he refuses, let him know that you will be nearby in case he needs anything.
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Step 4
Compliment the customer on his appearance. "I like your hair," for example, will do just fine to show the customer that you are committing his appearance to memory. It will also tell the customer that you care and may even boost your sales! Giving that type of personal attention to your customers might give a potential shoplifter a sense of guilt and prevent him from stealing.
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Step 5
During checkout, make sure you continue giving the personal attention as detailed in the previous steps. Engage the customer in chit chat. Personal attention can not only help your sales but also prevent shoplifting.
