Hello Fellow Cigar smokers

[SuperChuck]

Be knowlegeable. I'm going to frequent the stores that can answer my questions.

Don't be pompous. Treat all your customers with respect, regardless of age, race, sex, or appearance. I don't go to one of my local shops because I always get a greater-than-thou feeling when I'm in there. I usually do my shopping in jeans and a tee shirt and I look very young, but I ain't lookin' for Swishers.

Make suggestions. I always make an effort to ask for a suggestion if I feel the salesperson is knowledgable. Last time I was at my favorite shop, I was selecting some sticks and the salesman said, "Have you tried these yet? From what you're picking, I think you'd like them."

Carry a good variety. A lot of cigar shops only carry expensive sticks. Carry good inexpensive sticks and good expensive sticks and you can bring in a lot of business. My favorite shop has the largest variety in the state.

Like CC86 said, carry the high end fuentes (and Hemingway short stories), davidoff, and padron. But if you don't do the above, I still won't go to your store very often.

[Cohibanut]

Superchuck said it all. There is nothing more infuriating (and ultimately doomed to failure) than a shop keeper who knows nothing about the products he/she is selling.

Know your stuff and NEVER compromise the reputation of your establishement by selling second rate cigars.

Having said that all this is pretty obvious isn't it? I'm sure you know all this if you've been in the business for so long? (And now teach as well!).

Still, all the best.

[Jonsey5484]

When I walk into a Humidor, I like orginization. Not just boxes thrown where ever. I like a salesperson who will walk through the humidor with you and explain about the different cigars. I.E. Mild, Medium, or Full Bodied, Maker, What other cigars they are similar to, etc.

[mithril]

knowledge my friend. that's what would impress me. if i knew that the salesperson knew what they were talking about, selling and whatnot, i would shop there more often. history of the cigars, history of the companies, what's good for newbies or seasoned FOGs.

[isaac]

putting some poster outside is a good idea i guess
sometimes, i don't want to get into a shop if i can't expect what they are selling

[Krautle87]

Personally, I'm a fan of the "Buy 3 get one free" and "buy 4 get two free" deals. Even if I end up spending a little bit more, it always feels good getting something for free. And I definately agree that friendly service and great selection is key. There are two stores back home that have treated me very well (despite looking even less than my age) and they have great selection, so I keep going back.