Have you ever gone out for a quiet meal only to find that the staff have the stereo pounding loud music into every corner of the restaurant? Background music can be very enjoyable, but loud music can be intrusive and a real irritant for customers.
There has been a lot of research done on the effects of music on customers. In the restaurant trade it is generally accepted that diners 'eat to the beat'. If you want your customers to eat quickly and move on, you play music with a faster beat. If you want them to take their time, perhaps buy another bottle of wine, play music with a slow beat. Similarly, classical music gives the subconscious impression that a business is expensive and of a high quality. So, playing blues music could have a greater impact on your bottom line than you might have anticipated.
Background music is being used in supermarkets around the world to encourage sales. Some supermarkets even go as far as playing music known to encourage people to buy specific products, down different aisles. I believe that over time, smart and effective use of music will become as important in a business as the lighting and general lay-out.
When in comes to playing music in your business, there are two main issues: the type of music and the volume at which it is played. Play something that is appropriate to your business. You may get a good response from the customers in your new age bookstore when you have Enya playing in the background, but if your staff prefer to play AC/DC when you are at lunch you will soon notice that sales decline at that time of day.
The same goes with the volume. If you're not sure if it's too loud, ask your customers. The music shouldn't interfere with conversation. After all, unless you own a music shop, your customers aren't coming in to buy the music. In fact, loud music is very disrespectful to your customers; it sends the message: 'We want the music loud because we enjoy it, and you'll have to live with it or go elsewhere.'
Show your customers that you respect them and appreciate their business by being mindful of the type and volume of music that you play in your business. If you have any doubts, ask your customers. If you are still unsure, play it safe with quiet background music that won't offend or irritate anyone.