HFA Insights Podcast

Congress and the Trump administration are preparing another Covid-19 relief package. The Home Furnishings Association's Washington representative, Chris Andresen, and government relations liaison Doug Clark discuss what furniture retailers need and what's likely to come.

Ken Widger, MicroD's Senior Marketing Program Manager, shares his insight on how retailers are coping during this current crisis, the technology that brought success for many retailers, and a message of hope coming into the recovery. Ken discusses the changes retailers are already making--with some great results--to their digital commerce and how to take what we learned from this crisis into the future of your business.  www.myhfa.org/covid19 www.microdinc.com    

The COVID-19 pandemic is reminding us that necessity is the mother of invention and has accelerated digital adoption for consumers and organizations alike. Kathy Kimple, Chief Retail Officer from FitForCommerce, discusses how retail is reacting, innovating and applying best practices to meet customer needs.  Hear what technologies retailers need to be thinking about over the next 3-6 months, ecommerce pitfalls to avoid, lessons learned from other retail verticals to help home furnishings companies succeed in the current environment.    Additional resources and insights can be found on the HFA Website COVID19 Recovery Resources and FitForCommerce Blog FFC COVID-19 blog. 

Everyone is trying to figure out what the “new normal” will look like when your stores reopen. What will recovery look like to you and your customers? What product categories will be available? What will be most in demand? How can you prepare? Industry analyst and icon Jerry Epperson answers these questions and more in this podcast “Readying for the Recovery”. HFA Executive Vice President Mark Schumacher will talk with Epperson about when he thinks stores will ramp up again, what he predicts the industry’s Asian and domestic supply chains will look like, and how that will impact your showroom.

In the evolution of the customer journey how are you currently touching your customers?  In this episode, Ken Widger, Marketing Program Manager at MicroD will discuss how the customer journey has changed and how to keep your brand visible at every step of the way in this new journey.  You will learn what touch points are, how to utilize, measure and adjust them to keep your store top of mind when your customer is ready to buy. www.myhfa.org www.microdinc.com

The threat from online retailers like Wayfair is not a game to home furnishing businesses, but it is a “gaming” attitude they are turning to find ways to connect with their customers.    Patrick Clark is a senior technical artist for Wayfair. His background is in video gaming, which might give you an idea of how they think about the customer experience at Wayfair. What can you do to compete with that or what takeaways can help in your daily brick and mortar business? We tackle that when we talk with Patrick on The 20.

Could you increase sales through psychology? The scientists at Neurofied think so. At their Brain and Behavior Academy in Amsterdam they are working to help retailers understand their customers. The core idea is that everything people-related can be analyzed and improved in terms of attention, perception, decisions and memory. Maybe it’s as simple as the colors your sales teams wear to the way you display home furnishings to the smell of our store. On The 20 we talk with Philip Jordanov, a cognitive neuropsychologist with Neurofied to dig into this brain based selling tool.

In this episode we talk with the merchandising master Stephen Riley, formerly of Nebraska Furniture Mart and May Companies. He talks about his experiences in merchandising, watching trends and how building relationships with people are the key to success.  Stephen discusses the mentors that have shaped his career and the advice he gives to others. For more podcasts, webinars, and educational events visit www.myhfa.org

Heading to High Point? HFA members Andy McCurry (McCurry Furniture) and Jake Jabs (American Furniture Warehouse), and High Point Market’s Ashley Grigg offer a few tips and tricks in our special-edition podcast. For market seminars, events and Solution Partners, visit the Resource Center on the first floor of Plaza Suites or click here: www.myhfa.org/high-point-market/

One of the goals of every furniture retailer is creating repeat business. In this episode, we learn how furniture retailers are building loyalty with Rewards Loyalty Program.   You will discover how a loyalty program works in a furniture store, how retailers are utilizing and find success with this program.

The Home Furnishings Association's Executive Vice President, Mark Schumacher talks with David Kain about what the home furnishings industry could learn from the auto industry. The answer is a lot more than you think! ________ For more podcasts, webinars, and educational events visit www.myhfa.org.

In this episode, we talk with strategic consulting firm CEO, Lorri Kelley, about how her goals of being a fashion buyer were quickly diverted into the furniture industry, and how her skills in merchandising, sales and strategic management rapidly moved her from opening retail stores to working in the manufacturing realm. We'll also discuss the great benefits of having a mentor, what mentors can help you do, and how Lorri continues to utilize mentors in her life to this day. If you're a home furnishings professional curious about mentorship, a proper work-life balance, or if continued education is all that important, you need to listen!

The marketing landscape has shifted!  Consumers have less patience.  Most of all, they want to receive information that is relevant to their needs and that will ultimately support their purchase decision.  In this 4 part series, Michael Bailenson, president and found of BailComm, LLC will focus on how eMarketing is not only still the cornerstone that drives all other internet-related marketing, but email newsletters are actually experiencing a resurgence due to the onslaught of social media, texts and digital ads.  Part 4:  Interpreting the Analytics.  This is the Fourth podcast in a series of podcasts devoted to the category of enewsletter marketing.  Throughout this series, Michael will share the basics of creating, managing and measuring emarketing. Michael Bailenson introduced the newsletter concept to the home furnishings industry 24 years ago and is the leading provide of eMarketing and social media solutions.  http://bailcomm.com/

The marketing landscape has shifted!  Consumers have less patience.  Most of all, they want to receive information that is relevant to their needs and that will ultimately support their purchase decision.  In this 4 part series, Michael Bailenson, president and found of BailComm, LLC will focus on how eMarketing is not only still the cornerstone that drives all other internet-related marketing, but email newsletters are actually experiencing a resurgence due to the onslaught of social media, texts and digital ads.  Part 3:  Outsource or Manage In-House.  This is the third in a series of podcasts devoted to the category of enewsletter marketing.  Throughout this series, Michael will share the basics of creating, managing and measuring emarketing. Michael Bailenson introduced the newsletter concept to the home furnishings industry 24 years ago and is the leading provide of eMarketing and social media solutions.  http://bailcomm.com/

The marketing landscape has shifted!  Consumers have less patience.  Most of all, they want to receive information that is relevant to their needs and that will ultimately support their purchase decision.  In this 4 part series, Michael Bailenson, president and found of BailComm, LLC will focus on how eMarketing is not only still the cornerstone that drives all other internet-related marketing, but email newsletters are actually experiencing a resurgence due to the onslaught of social media, texts and digital ads.  Part 2:  Creating the email database.  This is the second of a series of podcasts devoted to the category of enewsletter marketing.  Throughout this series, Michael will share the basics of creating, managing and measuring emarketing. Michael Bailenson introduced the newsletter concept to the home furnishings industry 24 years ago and is the leading provide of eMarketing and social media solutions.  http://bailcomm.com/

The marketing landscape has shifted!  Consumers have less patience.  Most of all, they want to receive information that is relevant to their needs and that will ultimately support their purchase decision.  In this 4 part series, Michael Bailenson, president and found of BailComm, LLC will focus on how eMarketing is not only still the cornerstone that drives all other internet-related marketing, but email newsletters are actually experiencing a resurgence due to the onslaught of social media, texts and digital ads.  Part 1:  eNewsletter vs eBlast.  Creating content that is relevant to your customer's needs and will ultimately support their purchase decision.  We will learn the most effective way to engage with your customer.  Michael Bailenson introduced the newsletter concept to the home furnishings industry 24 years ago and is the leading provide of eMarketing and social media solutions.  http://bailcomm.com/

Seth Weisblatt, former owner of Sam's Furniture and Appliance and now industry consultant shares his experience moving up within a family business.  Seth discusses his experiences from his early years of learning to how young professionals can maximize opportunities within the industry. Seth has always been technology forward and relates how you can influence the use of technology in your business to a current generation that may be resistant.  

Eric Easter, CEO of top 100 retailer, Kittle's Furniture discusses how he shaped a career in this industry.  Eric considers himself a "people" person and talks about how he built a servant leadership culture with the growth of his people in mind.  Eric rounds out our discussion with some great advice to young professional managers on how to be a great leader! 

In this episode, we learn from Joey Gunn, third generation owner, Knight Furniture, why it was so important in his business learning experience to go to market at a young age.  Joey talks about what he learned and how it helped shape his leadership role within the company and some things that surprised him that he still uses today.  He also gives advice to young professionals on how to convince your parents to bring you to market and the benefits it will bring.

From what day to plan your trip to over (or under) packing, the whole experience can be stressful and confusing. HFA sat down with Jetsetter, Bonnie Melcher discussed tips and hacks that will help any business professional navigate the skyways and highways.  Learn how to strategically plan your trip, packing hacks, Uber tips, eating and exersizing, and so much more while out on the road.

A characteristic of a good leader is that they are readers, always having the thirst for knowledge. In this episode, we will learn about a very special book club Rob Ball, Director of Retail Sales & Business Development and two other Directors at Top 100 Retailer Badcock Home Furniture & More have put together for traveling directors in their operation. The book club features books about leadership, entrepreneurship, and inspirational business journeys. Rob tells us about some of his favorite books, authors and teachings that have motivated the emerging leaders at Badcock Home Furnishings. Visit: www.myhfa.org

Stan Pickett, Owner of Quality Furniture and Mayor of Mesquite, Texas discusses how to discover opportunity and the importance of giving back. From his early days in retail to his duties as Mesquite’s Mayor Stan talks about the rewards of community connection and offers young professionals great advice on finding your passion. visit: www.myhfa.org

In this episode, you will get to know Tim Donk the Director of Marketing and Business Development for Legends Furniture. He tells us how he fell into the furniture industry and his long connection to Legends Furniture. Discover how Donk finds passion in the creativity this industry brings, the advice he has for young leaders moving up in their business, and how he works to find his next million dollar idea. Visit:  www.myhfa.org  

Videos are now a big part of the path to purchase for your products. Next to Facebook, it’s the best awareness digital channel there is. In this episode, Tim McLain of Netsertive discusses the emerging opportunity retailers have in reaching new customers with YouTube. Tim McLain will discuss how to advertise on YouTube to reach the right customers and how to create those winning videos, in the upcoming webinar: YouTube Advertising: How to Nail It. How to Scale It.  September 26, 2018 at 11:00am Pacific. Register today. Visit www.myhfa.org  

David Beckmann, Emerald Home Furnishings, Tacoma, Washington, talks about his journey in the furniture industry. With his passion for this industry being inspired by his mother to the importance company culture and the “standard of yes” to how important it is to be involved to make this industry a better place for our customers. Visit www.myhfa.org

While much of the focus in the changing retail landscape has been on the selling experience for customers, product delivery is often overlooked as part of this conversation. In this podcast, Rob Davis, Vice President of Client Solutions for Diakon Logistics, talks about the importance of the delivery process and challenges retailers face in this service. Davis also offers advice on how retailers can evaluate their financials and what KPI’s to watch to determine if outsourcing the delivery process makes sense. visit www.myhfa.org  

In this episode, Tim McLain of Netsertive discusses the importance of utilizing Facebook to create a relationship with your customers. What to post for the most impact and how to reach new customers with Facebook posts. He also touches on the advantages of “boosting” your posts and Facebook advertising. For a deeper conversation into the advantages of Facebook advertising and to hear tips on the best return on your ad spend, please register for the upcoming webinar: Facebook Audiences: How to Attract New Customers, September 5, 2018 at 11:00am Pacific.

Business Networking is a valuable way to expand your knowledge, learn from the success of others, attain new clients and tell others about your business. In today's world with social media being so easy, it can be harder for people to feel comfortable networking face to face.  In this podcast, Dana Helms tells us how to feel comfortable attending a networking event, approaching stangers and work a room with ease.  If you are new to networking or a seasoned professional you will gain tips on how to meet people and develop those connections that will pay off. Visit www.myhfa.org

In this episode, Kurt Strasser with Knorr Marketing discussed digital marketing and how retailers are using it today.  He also talked about the common mistakes retailers make when it comes to digital marketing and how to put together strategies to help your brand and to bring traffic into your store. For a deeper conversation into digital marketing, please register for the upcoming webinar: 3 Vital Strategies to Boost Your Digital Marketing, July 11, 2018 at 11:00am Pacific.  

David Harkness, Harkness Furniture, Tacoma Washington discusses how he was always destined for the furniture business. Learn what his father made him do before he could come into manage the store and how he is grooming his son differently for ownership. Dave also reveals how networking has improved his business for the better and easy ways you can improve your operations. Visit www.myhfa.org

In this episode we talk with Richard Sexton, Chief Product Officer for MicroD, about the purpose of your website, what retailers get wrong, and tips to make sure your customer experience is attracting and keeping today's digital consumer. For a deeper dive into the tips and trends Richard explains in this podcast, attend his webinar on July 25, 2018, complete with case studies and expamples. 12 Website Design Trends You Must Know.   visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.    

How do you calculate sales success for your business? Discover your sales equation formula, what are your key sales metrics to watch and how to evaluate your salespeople's successes and opportunities for improvement. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.

Inventory is the largest asset on your home furnishings businesses balance sheet.  David McMahon will talk about importan performance metrics around your inventory and will share strategies for improvement. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.    

In this podcast, David McMahon will discuss what key performance metrics centered around profitability and cash flow in home furnishing retail businesses. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.  

David McMahon talks about his book "Field Trips: Retail Business Improvement Writings".  He explains organizational improvement and how important it is for retailers to learn from each other with benchmarking data and what specific Key Performance Indicators to watch. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.  

Taylor Ganz talks about his journey in the furniture industry and the parts of the business he finds the most challenging and areas that could really effect your bottom line. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.    

Howard Haimsohn, Owner, Lawrance Contemporary Furniture, San Diego, California talks about his career path in a third generation family business.  He also discusses the importance of networking and how networking can develop into benefits much greater than your own business. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.  

Chris Cooley, President and CEO of Michael Alan Home Furnishings, in Lake Havasu, Arizona and Former HFA Retailer of the Year joins us to discuss being a female business owner in the home furnishings industry. She discusses time management, being a working mother, and the path to success in our industry. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.  

Michael Cohen, Presdent, of Top 100 Home Furnishings Retailer,Walker Furniture, Las Vegas discusses his professional experiences and how working on he manufacturing side of the industry has shaped him into being a better retailer. He also discusses the industry mentor's he's had in his life and why it's so important to learn with your ears. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.  

Larry Zigerelli, President and CEO of Top 100 Home Furnishings Retailer FFO Home, talks about his professional experiences and how they have shaped him into the leader he is today, his passions and what the next generation of retailer can do to prepare for the future. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.  

Brad Huisken, President of IAS Training, shares insights into the traits successful salespeople have in common and how to further develop top performers. Visit the Home Furnishings Association at www.myhfa.org.