A retail store manager in Boston watched 372 people walk past his store one afternoon. Only 6 stepped inside. The next week, he hosted an in-store event. 189 people came in. Sales jumped 267% that day.
In-store events aren’t just gatherings—they’re powerful tools that transform casual shoppers into loyal customers. But here’s what most store owners don’t know: the difference between a forgettable event and one that drives sales for months isn’t the budget. It’s the strategy, and how brands demonstrate their identity throughout the event.
Successful in store retail events share specific patterns that few retailers understand. These aren’t obvious tactics like “send more emails” or “post on social media.” They’re subtle psychological triggers that make customers feel personally invested in your brand’s identity and your store’s products.
Think about the last time you attended a store event. Was it memorable? Did it make you want to come back? Most importantly—did it make you spend more than you planned? A successful event might even introduce you to a particular product you hadn’t noticed before, creating a lasting impression of the brand’s products.
The truth is, most in store retail events fail because they focus on short-term sales instead of long-term customer relationships. But when you understand the psychology behind successful events, you can create experiences that customers will talk about for months. If you’re looking for reliable delivery services to enhance your in-store events, consider partnering with local experts like our Philadelphia couriers. They can help ensure smooth logistics, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable experiences for your customers.
This guide shows you exactly how to make your in-store events unforgettable. You’ll learn proven strategies that increase attendance, boost sales, and turn first-time visitors into repeat customers. By understanding how to engage your marketing team and partner with local businesses, you can elevate your next event into something special.
Let’s start with the foundation: understanding why certain strategies work better than others. To enhance your brand messaging and logistics during events, consider collaborating with local delivery services. This strategic move can help streamline operations and ensure timely product availability on-site. Businesses often overlook the importance of reliable logistic partners like the couriers in San Francisco, which can significantly affect customer satisfaction during events.

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Step 1: Master In-Store Event Marketing Strategies
Know your event’s purpose.
Set measurable goals.
Lay out a detailed plan.
Market Forecasts for Event Marketing
The global value of the event marketing industry is projected to reach approximately $722.67 billion by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.63%.
Define Your Goals
Start by determining what you want from the event. Are you trying to boost sales, get more foot traffic, or launch a new product? Your main purpose will guide every decision. Success requires clear, measurable objectives. Make sure goals are specific and numbers-driven. For instance, aim to increase store foot traffic by 20% during the weekend. Use SMART criteria — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound. This framework ensures goals are realistic and can be met.
Choose the Right Event
Select an event that aligns with your goals. If you want brand loyalty, consider a VIP sale or a product launch. Research your industry to identify successful event types. Look at competitors and gather information on what has worked for them. Events like workshops or live demonstrations can increase customer engagement. If your aim is widespread awareness, something with broad appeal, like a community day, might work best. Remember, each event type carries unique benefits and challenges.
ROI from Events
86% of B2B companies achieved a positive return on investment (ROI) from events within seven months, highlighting the financial benefits of hosting in-person gatherings.
Develop a Solid Plan
Plan thoroughly. Create a timeline with clear milestones. Include deadlines for each major task and update regularly. Assign roles and responsibilities to team members to ensure accountability. Collaborating with an event app development company can streamline task management and enhance coordination through custom digital tools. Communication among teams is key, so schedule regular check-ins. Make sure everyone knows what’s expected. Outline tasks such as logistics, marketing, and guest management. These steps help keep the event on track and reduce last-minute chaos.
Set Up Your Timeline
A well-structured timeline highlights key milestones. Start by listing all tasks needed to make the event happen. Work backward from the event date to allocate enough time for each phase. For example, start advertising at least four weeks in advance and finalize logistics two weeks before. This approach minimizes stress and maximizes readiness. Timelines also allow for the identification of potential conflicts early.
Budget Planning
Create a detailed budget. Allocate funds with care across various areas like promotions and logistics. Scoping expenses prevents overspending and ensures financial balance. Track spending to avoid exceeding the budget. Use spreadsheets or budgeting software to keep up with expenses. Review the budget regularly and adjust if needed. A well-managed budget helps anticipate unforeseen costs and maintains financial health.
Event Marketing Spend
U.S. companies spend an estimated $122 billion annually on event marketing, showcasing its significance as a marketing tool.
Leverage Data-Backed Strategies
Adding statistics to your approach can greatly enhance success. For example, researches show that customers are more likely to purchase after attending a live event. This highlights how powerful experiential marketing can be. Furthermore, in-person events remain crucial for business success. An awareness of these trends supports better decision-making and planning.
In-Person Event Impact
95% of marketers believe that live events significantly contribute to achieving company goals, emphasizing their importance in marketing strategies
Understanding these nuts and bolts of event marketing ensures you’re well prepared. Clear goals, smart event choices, thorough planning, and budget discipline are vital steps to making your in-store event a hit. Everything fits together to form a solid foundation that leads towards memorable customer experiences.
Step 2: Employ Effective Customer Engagement Tactics for Retail Events
Boost customer interaction with activities and technology.
Enhance event success with dynamic and digital elements.
Engage attendees through hands-on experiences and virtual tools.
Consumer Engagement
73% of B2B marketers consider events the best method for fostering engagement with potential clients.
Design Interactive Activities
Creating interactive activities is an excellent way to engage new customers during in-store events. Consider introducing live demonstrations or hosting workshops. These activities serve as the perfect way to let attendees interact with your store’s products or brand’s products. Workshops, for example, allow participants to experience a product’s features firsthand, creating memorable and informative experiences. These experiences can lead to higher conversion rates, as potential customers feel more confident in their purchase decisions. When designing these activities, it’s crucial to consider the audience’s interests and needs. Books like “The Art of Gathering” by Priya Parker can provide deeper insights into designing engaging customer experiences by highlighting the processes behind bringing people together creatively and with purpose.
Offering samples or trials also piques interest and encourages interaction. Sampling provides a tangible way for customers to experience what a product offers, enhancing the likelihood of sales. It’s essential to balance quantity and quality when offering these samples—too few might not create the desired impact, while too many could oversaturate interest. A calculated approach can mean the difference between simple exposure and intended conversion. There’s a debate over the potential cost implications of free samples. Some argue that the short-term expense pays off in long-term customer loyalty and increased sales. Reviewing consumer behavior literature such as “Predictably Irrational” by Dan Ariely can offer a deeper understanding of how trials and sampling can influence customer decision-making.
Use Technology to Your Advantage
Implementing technology is an excellent way to enhance customer engagement during in-store retail events. QR codes, for instance, offer a seamless way for potential customers to access additional information about your products instantly. By scanning these codes, customers can view product specifications, watch video demonstrations, or read reviews.
This approach not only provides valuable insight into products but also keeps customers engaged longer. It’s critical to ensure that the digital content linked to these QR codes is well-curated and informative. This small detail can bridge the gap between curiosity and purchase. Resources like “Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age” by Jonah Berger delve into how digital tools can influence consumer behavior and enhance event experiences.
Social media is another potent tool for driving engagement. During events, platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook can be utilized to provide live updates, host Q&A sessions, and encourage users to share their experiences with friends. This not only broadens the event’s reach but also creates a sense of community among attendees. The downside, however, is the potential for negative feedback to be amplified.
Retailers must be prepared to handle such situations calmly and constructively, ensuring that the positive experiences far outshine any negatives. Exploring case studies of brands that have successfully integrated social media into their event strategies can provide actionable insights. Online courses or literature focusing on digital marketing strategies can further expand knowledge in this area.
Foster Direct Interaction
Beyond technology, fostering direct interactions between staff and customers enhances the event’s impact. Staff should be well-trained to communicate, understand customer needs, and solve problems effectively. This personal touch often makes a significant difference in customer perception and satisfaction. Personal interactions can create lasting impressions that purely digital engagement cannot achieve. Employees must be equipped with interpersonal skills and product knowledge to maximize these interactions.
Post-Event Loyalty
83% of consumers are more likely to return to a store after a positive in-store experience, underlining the importance of well-executed events.
Further exploration of this topic can be found in HBR’s classic “The Service Profit Chain,” which argues the direct correlation between employee satisfaction, service value, and customer loyalty. Reading this work provides a robust framework for understanding how engaged employees lead to enhanced customer experiences.
By combining interactive activities, leveraging technology, and fostering direct engagement, in store retail events can become memorable experiences that resonate with customers long after they leave the store. To stay ahead in the world of retail, it’s crucial to keep track of industry trends and networking opportunities. One way to do this is by attending impactful events. For those looking to expand their knowledge and community, check out the upcoming top retail conferences scheduled for 2025, which can provide valuable insights and connections that elevate your in-store event strategies.
Step 3: Implement Innovative Event Ideas for Retail Stores
Partner with local influencers for greater reach.
Create exclusive events for loyal customers.
Offer behind-the-scenes tours to foster excitement.
Collaborate with Local Influencers
To boost event promotion, partner with local influencers. These are people with a strong following in your community. Find influencers whose values align with your brand. Start by researching on social media platforms. Look for those who engage with your potential customers. Reach out with a clear proposal. Offer them incentives like free products or exclusive event access. This can motivate influencers to promote your event authentically. Make sure they understand your event goals and key messages. Creator commerce continues to be a popular trend, so leverage this to build credibility and draw in crowds. Show them your unique angle to make the partnership valuable.
Next, encourage these influencers to attend your event. This is where they can capture live moments from the event, like a fashion show, and share their experiences via live videos or posts across their platforms. Prepare them with a list of specific hashtags to use. This maximizes reach and visibility. Consider setting up photo ops or interactive displays that are appealing for social media.
These experiences should naturally prompt content creation, helping to sell the experience as well as your products. During the event, engage with these influencers. Introduce them to your marketing team and let them in on exclusive insights about your brand. This fosters a stronger connection and inspires genuine promotion.
Create Exclusive Experiences
Provide unique experiences for your loyal customers. Consider hosting a VIP event. Invite top customers for a special evening. Offer exclusive perks like cocktails, appetizers, and intimate brand-related discussions. This strengthens customer loyalty. Makes the attendees feel valued and appreciated. Let them experience new products first-hand. This can drive word-of-mouth marketing significantly. Customers want special treatment, and offering it can lead to stronger brand affinity.
Spending Behavior
Consumers who have a positive in-store experience are likely to spend more per visit, with 63% indicating they would do so.
Another option is providing behind-the-scenes tours or sneak peeks of new products. Take small groups around your store’s back areas. Show them where the magic happens. This could be through a brief demonstration of product creation processes or a look into how you curate product collections. Encouragement from in-store discoveries already leads more people to purchase right away than online visits. Use this to your advantage by letting them see the work behind your offerings firsthand.
Create anticipation by subtly hinting at upcoming products during these tours. Allow attendees to touch, feel, and engage with upcoming offerings. This generates excitement and provides memorabilia to talk about post-event. Keep tours organized, concise, and full of interesting details that will captivate your attendees.
Leverage Digital Experiences in Promotions
Incorporate digital elements to enhance your in-store events. A significant part of your audience uses digital tools during shopping. Make this work in your favor. Utilize mobile apps or digital dashboards to share dynamic content. To take it a step further, develop a mobile app that offers personalized experiences and real-time updates for your customers. Combine traditional elements with innovative tech for a cohesive experience. Install interactive kiosks or tablets for attendees to explore product details. Make sure the content is synchronized with your event theme. Allow interaction with minimal screen time but maximum impact.
Create a digital guide for the event. This could be an app or web page that attendees can access on their phones. Include features like event schedules, speaker information, or interactive maps. Employ AR technology to incorporate a virtual scavenger hunt within your store. Create an engaging challenge that results in exclusive perks or discounts. Make sure each digital step aligns seamlessly with your event’s physical activities.
Step 4: Optimize Customer Experience at Events
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Align event atmosphere with brand identity.
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Deliver top-notch customer service.
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Enhance customer satisfaction and retention.
Craft an Ambience That Reflects Your Brand
Creating a brand-aligned ambiance is crucial for successful events. Start with decorations that reflect your brand’s identity and aesthetic. For instance, a technology store might use sleek, modern designs, while a bookstore might opt for cozy, rustic elements. Choose music that complements this vibe. If you run a laid-back coffee shop, ambient jazz might suit, but an energetic retail outlet may prefer upbeat tracks. When the look and sound are consistent with your brand, customers feel more connected and engaged. Consider adding scents that relate to your brand if applicable.
A comfortable space is just as important. Ensure there’s enough room for people to move freely. Arrange furniture to encourage customer interaction and engagement with your store’s products. Use soft, ambient lighting to enhance comfort, unless showcasing specific items where brighter lighting is beneficial. Maintain proper ventilation to keep the temperature pleasant. If possible, offer refreshments like food that aligns with health protocols. Comfortable guests are more likely to enjoy the event and stay longer.
Evaluate Space Layouts
Evaluate the event space before guests arrive. Think about how decorations and seating can influence flow. Test different layouts to see what encourages movement and which areas might become congested. Set up check-in and help desks near entrances for convenience. Use signs to guide guests. For an interactive experience, consider stations where guests can try products or engage with staff.
Provide Excellent Customer Service
Great customer service can turn a good event into a memorable one. Begin by training staff thoroughly. They should know not only event details but also be well-versed in your products or services. Encouraging knowledge-based interactions creates trust and boosts sales. Offering role-playing sessions can help staff feel ready for real interactions.
Have enough staff on-site to manage the crowd. Quick assistance keeps lines short and guests happy. Divide staff roles clearly – some manage entry, while others guide and answer questions. Consider hiring temporary staff if the event is large. An often overlooked aspect is staff visibility. Uniforms or badges help guests identify who they can approach for help, resulting in swifter problem resolution and a smoother event process.
Invest in Staff Training
Invest in soft skills training for staff. Traits like empathy and communication make customer interactions positive. Role-playing exercises are valuable for simulating potential scenarios. Encourage staff to acknowledge customers quickly, creating a welcoming experience. Use feedback from past events to improve. A company that offers stellar service can significantly boost its sales. Consider that 96% of customers say service impacts their loyalty (Microsoft).
By following these steps, your event is on its way to becoming truly memorable.
Advanced Tips for Enhancing Your In-Store Retail Events
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Analyze what worked or didn’t in past events to improve future ones.
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Avoid common mishaps by planning and focusing on customer needs.
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Efficient staffing and time management can create seamless experiences.
A fun place to shop, coupled with a well-planned event, can transform a simple retail gathering into an unforgettable experience. To ensure your in-store events stand out, many retailers focus on creating experiences that engage customers, foster relationships, and drive sales. Here’s a complete guide to making the most of your next retail event. For those looking for efficient delivery solutions for their event needs, considering a reliable Miami courier service can make a significant difference in logistics and planning. This service can ensure that materials, samples, and promotional items arrive on time, allowing you to focus more on creating a memorable experience for your customers.
For retailers keen on expanding their reach and maximizing engagement, participating in relevant retail trade shows can be a game-changer. These events not only showcase products but also provide invaluable networking opportunities and insights into industry trends that can enhance future marketing strategies.
Leverage Data from Past Events
Data from past in-store events is a treasure trove for improvement. Start by reviewing attendance metrics, customer feedback, and sales figures. Focus on patterns that reveal what attracted more attendees or increased sales. For precision, use data analytics software or tools like Google Analytics and CRM systems that offer comprehensive reports on visitor behavior and sales conversion rates.
Incorporate machine learning tools to forecast trends and tailor future events to meet customer expectations. This approach helps move beyond mere guesswork. For instance, if data shows a spike in engagement during product demos, consider incorporating more of these into the event plan.
To expand your knowledge on data-driven event improvements, consider “Data-Driven Marketing: The 15 Metrics Everyone in Marketing Should Know” by Mark Jeffery. It covers critical metrics that can refine event strategies. Weighing the benefits and challenges of such analytics can aid in making informed decisions that align with business goals, especially when planning events across multiple locations.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
In-store events come with their own set of challenges, and avoiding common pitfalls is crucial for smooth execution. A major issue is overbooking the event space, which can lead to overcrowding and reduced customer satisfaction. Ensuring that the guest list aligns with the venue’s capacity is essential. Additionally, having sufficient staff to manage the flow of attendees during peak times can prevent long wait times and a negative experience.
Time mismanagement is another common problem. To avoid rushed events, it’s critical to create a detailed timeline and rehearse key activities in advance. Experts recommend breaking the event into manageable segments to maintain attendee focus and engagement.
Books like “Into the Heart of Meetings” by Eric de Groot and Mike van der Vijver can offer insights into structuring impactful events that maintain attendee interest and ensure smooth execution.
Elevate Customer Experience through Personalization
Personalization plays a significant role in elevating customer satisfaction and engagement during in-store events. A simple yet effective way to enhance personalization is by using customer data to offer tailored interactions. For example, name tags that acknowledge preferences or personalized messaging can create a more welcoming atmosphere.
To take personalization a step further, incorporating technology like mobile apps or loyalty programs can provide attendees with customized recommendations or exclusive offers. Personalized experiences help build stronger customer relationships and increase the likelihood of repeat business. According to Harvard Business Review, consumers highly value personalized experiences, considering them a major driver of satisfaction. Many retailers also implement these techniques across locations to keep a consistent customer experience.
Mobile App Usage
51% of customers use retail mobile apps while shopping in-store, indicating the integration of digital tools into physical shopping experiences.
For those looking into further resources to refine this approach, “The Experience Economy” by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore explores how businesses can create memorable events and experiences as a core offering. The book discusses how recalling these interactions can positively influence future behavior and loyalty.
Optimize Event Technology for Interaction
The right tech can revolutionize how in-store events are conducted. Employing mobile apps for check-in processes or interactive kiosks for product information can significantly enhance engagement. Utilizing AI-powered event registration tools simplifies attendee management, ensuring a seamless check-in experience and better data collection.
Tech Transforms Events
68.7% of event organizers have recognized the value of using cutting-edge technology to boost participation, according to Eventcube.
Furthermore, integrating virtual and augmented reality into the event setup creates novel experiences that captivate attendees. Offering VR demos or AR-enabled product visualizations can capture interest and keep patrons engaged longer. Apps like Zappar or tools like Ingress can provide the infrastructure needed for captivating digital overlays.
Virtual Event Limitations
About 71% of event decision-makers believe that virtual events cannot replicate the impact of live experiences effectively.
To dig deeper into the intersection of technology and events, consider “Event Planning: The Ultimate Guide to Successful Meetings, Corporate Events, Fundraising Galas, Conferences, Conventions, Incentives, and Other Special Events” by Judy Allen. It illustrates utilizing specific technologies that enhance participant involvement and streamline event execution.
Seasonal Themes and Strategic Planning
Incorporate seasonal themes to pique interest and relevance. These could align with public holidays or specific industry events.Analyzing data from previous in-store events can significantly improve future event strategies. By reviewing key metrics such as attendance rates, customer feedback, and sales performance, retailers can uncover insights into what attracted more customers or drove sales. For example, tracking the number of attendees during a particular type of activity or measuring sales before and after specific promotions can help identify successful elements.
Advanced tools like Google Analytics and CRM systems are invaluable for gathering and analyzing such data. These tools can track customer behavior, allowing retailers to optimize event strategies and adjust marketing efforts accordingly. Additionally, using machine learning algorithms can help predict future trends, providing more accurate forecasts and tailored event planning.
To delve deeper into data-driven marketing, resources such as “Data-Driven Marketing: The 15 Metrics Everyone in Marketing Should Know” by Mark Jeffery offer valuable guidance on improving event strategies through metrics.
Before finalizing a theme, conduct surveys or focus groups to understand customer preferences better. Align these findings with your brand’s narrative to ensure coherence. Consider evaluating competitors’ themed events for learning opportunities.
For a strategic approach to themed events, “Influencer Marketing for Dummies” by Kristy Sammis and Stephanie Agresta offers insights on capitalizing on temporal trends. The book discusses timing your events to coincide with maximum engagement potential.
With these steps mastered, the potential for unforgettable in-store events is within reach. By continually refining strategies and embracing advanced planning techniques, your store can stand out and make a lasting impression on its clientele.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Exclusive offers can boost turnout.
Backup plans are essential for no-shows.
Prompt communication solves many problems.
Handling Low Turnout
Events aren’t immune to low attendance. When turnout is underwhelming, the key is swift and effective action.
First, consider offering exclusive incentives. These can be discounts, limited edition products, or even unique experiences that only event-goers can access. Incentivizing attendance creates a sense of urgency, making people more likely to show up.
Next, send a follow-up promotion to those who intended but didn’t make it. This can be in the form of a thank you note or a discount offer if they visit within a set time. Such gestures can transform missed attendance into future footfall.
To understand why turnout was low, use surveys. Ask registrants why they couldn’t attend. This helps identify barriers such as timing conflicts or lack of interest in the event type. Analyzing this data can highlight trends and inform future scheduling and content decisions.
Lastly, review marketing tactics. Did the advertising reach the intended audience? Was there confusion about the date or venue? Fine-tuning these aspects can prevent similar issues in future events.
Boosting Attendance
Another method to boost turnout is collaborating with local influencers. Engaging individuals who have a connection with the community can increase event visibility and spark interest. Remember, as Thomas Edison noted, “Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” Embrace strategic planning to transform potential challenges into opportunities.
Dealing with Last-Minute Cancellations
Last-minute cancellations are inevitable. Preparing for these disruptions can minimize their impact.
First, always have a backup plan. If a key speaker or entertainer cancels, identify several alternatives well in advance. These backups can be team members or local talent who are willing to step in.
Flexibility is crucial for participants as well. Offer remote participation options if possible, allowing them to contribute virtually. This keeps them engaged and lessens the impact on the event schedule.
Second, maintain clear, prompt communication with attendees. Notify them immediately about cancellations and any changes to the schedule. Transparency goes a long way in maintaining trust and ensuring attendees feel informed.
Finally, leverage technology. Use event management apps to send real-time updates to attendees. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and can adapt to any last-minute changes.
Remember, effective troubleshooting relies heavily on preparation and adaptability. As indicated by Michael Jordan’s words, “Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships,” applying intelligent strategies in managing cancellations is key.
Further Resources and Reading
Understand retail event case studies for real-world insights.
Find out about cutting-edge digital tools for organizing events.
Learn how optimizing in-store events improves brand reputation and loyalty.
Explore Related Topics or Advanced Guides
Case studies of successful in store retail events offer a wealth of knowledge. They provide detailed accounts of planning, execution, and outcomes. For example, a case study might detail a company that partnered with a local influencer which resulted in a 25% increase in foot traffic during the event. Such examples highlight the strategic planning necessary to make in-store events successful.
Experts recommend exploring advanced event management software. New digital tools can streamline processes, reduce manual work, and provide real-time analytics. Platforms like Eventbrite not only handle RSVPs but also track attendee behavior. These tools help managers make informed decisions on the fly.
Why Optimizing In-Store Events Matters
Optimizing in-store events is essential for brand exposure and customer loyalty. When customers engage with interactive and unique experiences, they are more likely to return. Real-time data analytics plays a pivotal role here.
Real-Time Data Boosts Satisfaction
Using real-time data can increase customer satisfaction scores by up to 20%, allowing businesses to adjust their strategies swiftly to better meet customer needs.
The effectiveness of well-planned events is evident. Optimized events not only boost immediate sales but also foster long-term customer loyalty. A well-executed event strategy can significantly contribute to increased sales by fostering positive customer experiences and engagement, thereby positively impacting the company’s financial performance and brand image.
How Event Optimization Can Drive Revenue
An optimized event strategy can lead to a 10% increase in sales due to improved customer experiences and engagement.
Conclusion
In-store events can change how customers see your business partners. The steps are clear: start with strong goals, plan with care, and choose activities that match your brand’s identity. When you add good technology and work with local influencers, you create events people want to attend, showcasing your store’s products or your brand’s products.
Success comes from paying attention to details. Train your marketing team well, create a welcoming space, and always have a backup plan. The best events feel natural, not forced. They give customers reasons to stay, share, and come back for a particular product or experience.
Most importantly: learn from each event. What worked? What didn’t? Use this knowledge to make your next event better. Remember that great events aren’t about perfect execution—they’re about creating moments that customers remember.
Your next in-store event is a chance to strengthen customer relationships and boost your business. Each person who walks through your door is looking for something special. With these strategies, you can give them exactly that.
Take what you’ve learned here and start planning. Your next successful in-store event is just a plan away. The real magic happens when you put these ideas into action.