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Facilitator’s Guide
Fall 2011 Home Decor Training
Level 2
“Discover the Difference”
Levolor Level 2 Training
Introduction
Levolor Level 2 Training reviews how to qualify customers, product
coordination, and product knowledge for Levolor Custom Size Now and
Special Order blinds and shades.
Length
3.5 hours (2.5 hours SOS; 1 hour CSN)
Requirements
Participants must be employed by Lowe’s Companies, Inc. or its subsidiaries.
Course
Description
This instructor-led course combines product knowledge and consumer
insights for Levolor Custom Size Now and Special Order blinds and shades.
Objectives
By the end of the class, you will be able to:
Qualify customers looking to purchase blinds and shades
Coordinate Levolor products with top sellers in Paint and Flooring
Coordinate different Levolor blinds and shades categories with one
another
Discover the difference between Levolor’s Custom Size Now program and
the stock programs of Lowe’s competitors
Demonstrate how to order Levolor Blue Tape and labels, and show how to
properly handle End Cap packaging issues.
Continued on next page
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Levolor Level 2 Training, Continued
Order of Topics
Below are the topics covered in this course:
Topic
See Page
Qualifying the Customer
Levolor Perceptions, Vertical, and Textured Blinds Program
Levolor Accordia Energy Efficiency
Discover the Difference/ Product Coordination
Use Your Clues Activity
CSN/CBC Program Review
CSN/SOS Product Coordination
Discover the Difference/How Lowe’s Wins
Use Your Clues Activity
Packaging Review/Blue Tape Ordering (In aisle)
Course Agenda
Below is the course agenda:
Subject
Duration
(3.5 hours)
5 minutes
10 minutes
10 minutes
50 minutes
10 minutes
20 minutes
5 minutes
15 minutes
15 minutes
5 minutes
10 minutes
10 minutes
15 minutes
15 minutes
10 minutes
5 minutes
Ice Breaker/Introduction
Special Order Sales Review
Qualifying the Customer
Levolor Vertical, Perceptions, and Textured Blinds
Levolor Accordia Energy Efficiency
Discover the Difference/ Product Coordination
Wrap Up/Questions
Use Your Clues Activity
Break
CSN Sales Review
CSN/CBC Program Review
CSN/SOS Product Coordination
Discover the Difference/ How Lowe’s Wins
Use Your Clues Activity
Packaging Review/ Blue Tape Ordering (in aisle)
Wrap Up/Questions
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Introduction, Icebreaker, and Sales Review (15 Minutes)
Introduction
and Icebreaker
Facilitator’s Note: Begin the Level 2 class by introducing yourself and any
other co-facilitator. Explain that you will be covering both Levolor Special
Order and Custom Size now product categories. The theme will be centered
around “Discover the Difference.” We will be discovering the difference
between Lowe’s and other retail stores that offer window treatments. As an
icebreaker, go around the room and have each attendee give his/her name,
store number, and favorite mystery book, mystery TV show, or mystery
movie.
______________________________________________________________
Sales Review
Facilitator’s Note: Prior to the Level 2 Class, during set up, write the YTD
Sales for all stores in attendance on the white board. Include their Special
Order Sales and Total Sales.
Include your territory YTD sales percentage on the white board for
both Total Lowe’s Sales and Lowe’s Special Order
Take time to review sales YTD for each store in the Lowe’s District
Recognize stores that are performing positively and above territory
trend YTD.
Also recognize stores that have opportunity for growth in the CSN
business.
Please take time after the sales review to reference the Lowe’s Vision
and Core Values, as well as the Lowe’s IMPACT Selling process on p. 5
and 6 of their Participant’s Guides. Explain to the class that even
though they have walked through these items in the morning
session, that Levolor partners with them, and supports the associates
in these values and processes!
______________________________________________________________
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
4
Qualifying the Customer (10 minutes)
Introduction
Qualifying the customer involves understanding what customers find
important and asking the right discovery questions.
Importance
By understanding what customers are looking for and asking the right
discovery questions, associates are able to accurately make the assessment
and better provide assistance.
Important
Attributes
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the associates to reference p. 8 in their guides. Explain
that the top attributes customers are looking for in window treatments are
listed in this section. For each attribute, ask the group what that word means
to them in relation to window treatments. Confirm and supplement their
answers by providing the information listed below that respective attribute.
Give the associates time to write the information you are giving them.
Directions: Please fill in the blanks with the definitions of each customer
attribute.
Value:
Value is defined as the total benefits/ total cost. Levolor has an option for
every consumer at every budget from our opening price point classic
collections to our industry exclusive designer collections.
Durability:
Levolor, founded in 1914, is the most recognized name in Window
Treatments and is synonymous with quality and innovation. Levolor proudly
stands behind our quality product and will do everything it can to satisfy our
customers and consumers.
Ease (Installation and Maintenance):
Levolor offers installation instructions online and with every order that are
easy to use and understand for the DIY consumer, however it is always a
great idea to take advantage of the measure and install program offered at
the store to ensure accurate measurements and labor free installation for
the customer.
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Availability:
Levolor is proud to partner with Lowe’s to provide an extensive, trend right,
innovative product offering to the consumer to meet any window need.
Light Control:
Levolor offers both single operation shades (Accordia, Roman, Natural,
Roller, Panel Track) in light filtering and room darkening fabrics and dual
operation blinds (Vertical/Soft Vertical, Wood/FX, Metal, and Textured
Blinds) that provide an adjustable range of light filtering to room darkening
properties depending on the position of the blind.
Privacy:
Levolor offers a range of opacity levels (1-5 or Sheer to Opaque) to meet all
privacy needs. This information is available on the back of all fabric
swatches. Additionally Levolor offers various features such as top down/
bottom up operation that provides privacy while still allowing natural light
into the room.
Energy Efficiency:
The Levolor Accordia program offers industry leading energy efficiency
proven to save customers up to $180 annually on their energy bill based on
your region; the most energy efficient shade on the market.
Safety:
As the pioneer of cordless operating technology, Levolor cordless products
provide enhanced safety for children and pets. Levolor has an industry
leading cordless offering available on: Accordia Shades, Roman Shades, Mark
1 Metal Blinds, Real Wood Blinds, Vertical blinds with auto wand and
exclusively on Natural Shades
Fashion/Design:
Levolor offers industry leading coordination with exclusive trend right fabrics
and finishes. For example, with over 214 fabric and color choices, the
Accordia program is a shade more fashionable. Also, Levolor received the
WCMA award for our "Best Enhanced Style Concept" for our custom wood
and faux wood program
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August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Discovery
Questions
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the group to reference p. 9 in their guides. Repeat to
the group that making the assessment involves asking the right discovery
questions. Ask them to share some of the discovery questions they use with
customers. After each question, discuss how different answers can impact
what window treatment will best serve the customer. This portion of the
training is intended to bring about a group discussion. If the group is timid to
speak up, ask an experienced associate to share with the group. If any of the
three questions below are not mentioned, provide them to the group and
make sure they write them down.
Directions: Review the below Discovery questions, and build upon this list to
qualify customers and make the assessment:
What project or room are you shopping for today?
What size/shape of window will you be covering?
What colors or finishes are you trying to coordinate your window
treatments with in your home?
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Levolor Perceptions, Verticals, and Textured Blinds (50
minutes)
Introduction
Levolor’s new Perceptions Room Darkening Sheers, Verticals, and Textured
Blinds will be reviewed.
Importance
The product knowledge covered in this section will allow associates to
provide assistance and ensure add on sales related to larger windows and
patio doors
Consumer
Research
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the group to reference p. 10 in their guides. During
any fill in the blank portion of the training, periodically ask the group to
guess what the answer is before you give it to them. This works best on
blanks filled with numerical data (i.e. “third” or “80”) or answers the
attendees should have familiarity with (i.e. “Accordia” or “Backstacker”.)
After each consumer insight, explain why it is important.
Filling in the blanks below will give associates more insight into what
customers purchasing verticals and soft verticals are looking for:
The Vertical and Soft Vertical categories make up the third largest
category of custom blinds and shades. (Woods 1st, Cellular 2nd)
80 % of vertical sales are at or above 76 inches wide
When shopping for vertical blinds, customers expect fashion and
function
Levolor introduces a program in which 75 % of the finishes and
options are new
Coordination
Story
Facilitator’s Note: Use the book during this portion to show how easy it is to
discover the product group that coordinates with each Vertical or Soft
Vertical collection. Point out the icons in the front of the book and where they
can be found throughout.
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Perfect match means that not only are the colors the same, but the
material used is also the same. For example, the Translucence line in
Perceptions uses the same material as the Translucence line in the
Accordia cellular collection.
Color coordination means that the same color has been used on two
different materials. Whisper, for instance, can be found in the
following five categories: Verticals, Perceptions, Accordia, Romans,
and Woods (twill tapes).
3 Step Process
Levolor Perceptions and Verticals are sold using an easy 3 Step Process:
Step 1: Choose your texture
Step 2: Choose your color
Step 3: Choose your options and upgrades
Fabrics and
Finishes
Facilitator’s Note: When going through each of the fabrics and finishes, show
the attendees the corresponding sections of the book. Also use your hand
samples to explain the difference between a Fabric, Natural, and Faux
texture. Ask a couple of the attendees which style they like best.
Fabric Textures have been designed with the look and feel of elegant
draperies.
Natural Textures is a collection of organic-inspired designs. This
collection coordinates directly with Levolor’s Visions Faux Wood
Blinds and Natural Shades collections.
Faux Textures was created to blend with textured wall and faux paint
finishes. This collection coordinates with the following most popular
wall effects and paint techniques: plastering, stucco, stenciling, and
sponging.
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Options and
Upgrades
Facilitator’s Note: When covering all options and upgrades, highlight any
that are shown on your hand samples. Also point out in the book where you
can find pictures and/or descriptions of each specific option and upgrade.
When discussing options and upgrades, focus on the benefit and not just the
feature. After each option or upgrade feature you mention, ask the group
how it may benefit the customer.
Consumers may choose between a cordless wand or a cord & chain
to control the blind. Cordless wand is the standard control setting.
Wands are available in two styles (Transitional and Traditional) and
four colors (Bronze , Satin Nickel , White , and Off White)
Consumers may choose from Left Stack, Right Stack, or Dual Stack
free of charge. Center Stack, where all of the vanes come into the
middle of the blind or shade, would be an upgrade.
The Levolor exclusive Backstacker upgrade allows vanes to slide
easily across the headrail and stack neatly on the outside edge of the
window.
Perceptions valance options:
o Channel (Standard) Valance – simple, clean, and color
coordinated to the fabric color. Comes included in the price
o Fabric Valance – first upgrade. Provides a softer look with
fabric laminated to a stiff channel.
o Estate Valance – a wood pole which has been split in half.
Provides a dramatic, drapery style valance. Available with
both an End Cap or a Ball Finial
Vertical valance options:
o Designline Valance – color coordinated to the vanes. Ships
with every order and comes included in the price
o Transitional or Traditional Valance – upgrade that offers a
grander, crown molding inspired look. Color coordinated to
the vanes with a decorative trim.
o Visions Valance – upgrade that lends itself to a Wood blind
inspired finish. Available in eight wood tone finishes.
Continued on next page
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Levolor Perceptions, Verticals, and Textured Blinds, Continued
Textured Blinds
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the group to reference p. 13 in their guides. Explain
that the Levolor Textured Blinds program is found in the same book as the
Perceptions and Verticals.
Levolor’s Textured Blinds program is meant to be a perfect match and
compliment to the Verticals program.
Collections in both Vertical and Textured blinds
o Grass Cloth in six colors
o Grass Weave in six colors
o Leather in seven colors
o Plaza in seven colors
o Stencil in five colors
o Tactics in six colors
Constructed similar to a wood blind, Levolor Textured Blinds are
available in a 2 ½” slat size. The texturing provides a richer more
elegant look.
Comes standard with a cord tilt and a Designline valance. Consumers
can choose to upgrade to the Transitional or Traditional valance for a
grander, crown molding inspired look.
Coordination
with other
categories
Facilitator’s Note: For this exercise, give the Vertical book to a different
attendee for each one of the product groups listed below. Ask them to use
the product icons in the book to identify every page number where they find
a collection that coordinates with the product group you assigned them.
Once they have finished, confirm or supplement their answer with the
information below.
Find a Levolor Perceptions or Vertical collection and page number that
coordinates with:
Accordia -3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13,
Woods – 16
Romans – 6, 9,
Naturals – 15
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Key Takeaways
Regarding Levolor’s Perceptions, Vertical, and Textured Blinds collection,
remember:
Fashionable – Over 200 colors and patterns. Choose from Fabric
Textures (from Linen to Silk), Natural Textures (inspired by Bamboo,
Leather, and Wood), or Faux Textures (featuring plastering, stucco,
stenciling, and sponging.)
Functional – Room Darkening collections help block out light for
maximum privacy, while Light Filtering collections help soften
incoming light and provide protection from direct sunlight. Options
such as cordless wand control provide the ultimate in functionality.
Coordinated – Wide assortment of textures and colors that
coordinate with other Levolor window treatments and your home
décor (from wall colors, to flooring, to soft furnishings.
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Levolor Accordia Energy Efficiency (10 minutes)
Introduction
Levolor Accordia Shades provide the most energy efficient window
treatment on the market
Importance
Consumers are educating themselves on the benefits of energy efficient
window treatments. Having accurate and insightful information will help
provide assistance and close sales with valuable add on options.
Climate specific
energy options
Levolor has partnered with the Department of Energy to determine the
most energy efficient options for each US region. Match the Levolor
Accordia product with the region of the country it benefits the most:
Sheer Efficiency, Transformations (with Sheer Efficiency & Room
Darkening), or Room Darkening
Northern Climate – Sheer Efficiency
Central Climate - Transformations
Southern Climate – Room Darkening
Energy Efficient
Impact
If Levolor Accordia Sheer Efficiency were put in every residential window in
the US, then we would save:
$6.5 Billion in Energy Bills
12% of the power produced by coal fired power plants in the US
6% of the total power produced in the US
Energy equal to 29 million tons of coal
Energy equal to 6 billion gallons of automotive gasoline
Energy equal to 135,000 barrels of oil
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Discover the Difference/ Product Coordination (20 minutes)
Introduction
Lowe’s gives consumers the opportunity to purchase all of their products at
one location when renovating their homes.
Importance
Consumers want the elements of their home to coordinate. Levolor
coordinates with other popular products found in Lowe’s neighboring
departments.
Consumer
Purchasing
Process
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the group to reference p. 15 in their guides. After
telling the class what the steps are in the consumer purchasing process,
explain that a customer can get their needs met for each step at Lowe’s
(furniture = cabinetry.) This makes coordinating with existing elements in the
home extremely important when selling window treatments.
Consumers typically renovate their home in the following order:
Paint
Flooring
Furniture
Window Treatments
Paint
Facilitator’s Note: Divide the class as evenly as possible into four groups.
Give each group an Accordia book and the ten paint swatches. Have the
groups go through the books and attempt to find which fabric color
coordinates best with the paint color on each one of their swatches. After
every group has finished, go through each one listed below and make sure
everyone captures the right answer on their Participant’s Guide. Encourage
them to keep this list behind the paint desk going forward to help transition
customers from a paint purchase to a window treatments purchase.
Directions: Levolor Accordia shades offer colors that coordinate with or
complement Valspar paint colors in the following combinations (Valspar on
the left): Use the Valspar paint swatches to discover which Accordia shade
fabrics coordinate with the paint color.
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August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Porcelain Shale/Sable Evening – Slate
Royal Garnet – Sangria or Merlot
Woodlawn Silver brook – Sterling
Clove Bud – Terra Cotta
Wooden Wagon – Toffee or Mocha
Coconut Milk – Sand or Cream
Gaucho – Everglade
Lovely Bluff – Cream or Candlelight
Quebec Calm – Petal
Winter Amethyst/Rapture – Lavender
Cabinets and
Flooring
Facilitator’s Note: Simply provide the group with the answer in the blank.
Levolor Wood Blinds coordinate with or compliment Kraftmaid Cabinetry as
well as Bruce and Pergo Flooring colors in the following combinations:
Kraftmaid Wickstrom Maple/Toffee – Premium Wood Golden Oak
Kraftmaid Lawton Birch/Chestnut – Premium Wood Cheyenne Red
Kraftmaid Willowbrook Maple/Dove White – Premium Wood Pure White
Bruce Hardwood/Bladensburg Plank/Oak Honey – Estate Oak
Pergo/Cordovan Oak – NuWood Honey Maple
Pergo/Butterscotch – NuWood Colonial Pine
Pergo/Lynhurst Maple – NuWood Chestnut
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
15
Use Your Clues Activity (15 minutes)
Introduction
This activity focuses on how to qualify a consumer and coordinate window
treatments
Importance
The exercise builds skills necessary to make assessments, provide
assistance, and ensure add on sales.
Consumer
Profile
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the group to reference p. 17 in their guides. For this
activity, you will provide the class with a consumer profile and they will have
to use those clues to solve the mystery of what the customer needs. They will
need to ask discovery questions to determine attributes discussed earlier
such as what size/shape the window is, what the customer needs the
treatment to provide, and what the customer would like the blind or shade to
coordinate with. Once the class has uncovered the key bulleted items below,
write them on the white board. When you are positive the group fully
understands the profile, choose an attendee to solve the mystery. In order to
show a good example, answer the first one yourself for the group.
Use the information provided to determine what window treatment best
meets the consumer’s needs.
Profile:
Consumer has 8 windows in living room and dining room
7 of the 8 windows are 31” x 64”.
Consumer is looking for shades that provide energy efficiency and
enhanced safety for her two kids.
The 8th window is 78” x 64” and the consumer is looking for a window
treatment that is functionally appropriate, and coordinates with the
other 7 windows.
Answer: Suggest any of the Levolor Perceptions or any Levolor Verticals in
the Fabric Textures section for the sliding glass door. Also suggest the
Autowand control for enhanced safety. For the other seven windows,
suggest Accordia cellular shades. Reference the Perception or Vertical color
chosen by the customer and select the coordinating fabric and/or color in
Accordia. Lastly, suggest a cordless operation on the Accordia shades for
enhanced safety.
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Profile:
Consumer has just purchased hardwood floors for living area, and
cabinets for the kitchen
He has 4 windows in the living room, all 31 x 64”
Consumer is looking for coordinating window treatments with the
Bruce Hardwood, Bladensburg Plank/Oak Honey flooring recently
purchased
In kitchen he has 2 windows, both 23” x 48” and is looking for
coordination with Kraftmaid Willowbrook Maple/Dove White
cabinetry
Answer: Suggest Levolor Wood blinds for all of his windows. For the four
windows in the living area, the customer should choose the Estate Oak
finish. For the two windows in the kitchen, the NuWood blinds in the Pure
White color would coordinate very well with his cabinets and stand up to
moisture.
Profile:
Consumer recently purchased a can of Valspar paint to create an
accent wall in dining room
She purchased Royal Garnet, and mentioned wanting to update 2
shades in dining room with coordinating color
The windows are 31” x 64”, and she is interested in light filtering
shades
Consumer also has a large window, 113” x 64” in living room
She is looking for light filtration during the day, and privacy at night
and would like this window treatment to coordinate with the 2
treatments in the dining room
Answer: For the two dining room windows, offer her the Sangria color in the
Translucence fabric of the Levolor Accordia collection. In order to dress her
large living room window the way she would like, offer Levolor Perceptions
in the Translucence fabric and Sangria color for a perfect match.
Break (15 minutes) – It is absolute that you give the class a 15 minute break at
this point in the training. Stress to the class that they need to be back in their
seats and ready to begin learning again in exactly 15 minutes.
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Levolor Custom Size Now Training
CSN Sales
Review
(5 Minutes)
CSN CBC
Program
(10 Minutes)
Facilitator’s Note: Prior to the Level 2 Class, during set up, write the CSN YTD
Sales Data for every store in attendance on the white board.
Include your territory CSN YTD sales percentage on the white board
Take time to review CSN Sales YTD for each store in the Lowe’s
District
Recognize stores that are performing positively and above territory
trend YTD.
Also recognize stores that have opportunity for growth in the CSN
business.
______________________________________________________________
Facilitator’s Note: Review the NEW Levolor CSN CBC Program with all
attendees. Ask associates to refer to p.18 in their Participant’s Guide and fill
in all blanks.
Buy More, Save More (White Faux Wood ONLY)
Lead Time Estimates –
o 50 – 250 Units = Ships in 3-5 Business Days from order receipt
o 250 – 499 Units = Ships in 5-7 Business Days from order receipt
o 500+ = Call Levolor Customer Service for lead time estimate
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Ordered through M20 Catalog –
Benefits to Associates and Contractors –
o ASSOCIATES EARN SOS COMMISSION! (please see SOS
certification and basic commission program for details – If asked
the question, Associates receive 2% commission from this
program)
o Levolor will size the entire order for Customer at plant
o All Blinds will be shipped and labeled as per your request
o Orders can ship to store OR directly to the customer’s job site.
_____________________________________________________________
CSN/SOS
Product
Coordination
(15 Minutes)
Facilitator’s Note: Review the below as an introduction to the CSN/SOS
product coordination portion of the training.
Levolor is the only Manufacturer to offer color coordination
throughout an extensive stock and special order program.
This is a benefit to consumers who want to incorporate a blend of SOS
window treatments while saving money on rooms/windows that can
accommodate CSN products.
Levolor recently increased the CSN product offering, adding new
colors, finishes, and products to help build the product coordination
from CSN to Levolor SOS.
Facilitator’s Note: Ask the attendees to reference p.19 in their Participant’s
Guide and match the CSN products to the photo of the Levolor SOS book it
coordinates with.
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CSN Faux Wood – White, Dover,
Pecan, Honey Pine, Walnut
CSN Real Wood – Rustic Oak
CSN Aluminum - White
CSN Cordless Cellular – Light
Filtering – Snow, Sand, Toffee
CSN Vertical Vanes – Pecan, Honey
Pine, Walnut, Sierra Snow
Facilitator’s Note: After attendees have matched the categories which
Levolor’s CSN products coordinate with, it is important to review which
COLLECTIONS and colors within each category actually coordinate.
Accordia Shades: Classic Collection, Colors Snow, Sand, and Toffee
Faux Wood Blinds: Visions Faux Wood Price Group 1 – White, Dover.
Visions Faux Wood Price Group 2 – Pecan, Honey Pine, and Walnut.
Real Wood Blinds: Estate Collection – Oak.
Vertical Blinds: Visions Collection – Pecan, Honey Pine, and Walnut.
Ivy Collection – Whisper.
Metal Blinds: Riviera One Collection – White
______________________________________________________________
Discover the
Difference
Facilitator’s Note: Use the below information to convey to associates the
reasons why LOWE’S wins with the Levolor Custom Size Now program, versus
their number one competitor in the marketplace – The Home Depot.
Home Depot has recently launched a new stock program called the Home
Decorator’s Collection. The below is a fill in the blank on the Participant’s
Guide – reference p.20-21.
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August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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# of Brands in Aisle
# of Categories
Category
Coordination?
Headrail
Construction
Finish Options
# of Colors
Vinyl Blinds
Metal/Aluminum
Blinds
Vertical Blinds
Natural Woven Wood
Levolor Level 2 Training
Lowe’s: Levolor CSN
Competitor THD:
1 – Levolor, the most
recognized brand
name to the customer
Seven Product
Categories: All Sized
for Free, in Store
Yes – 3 CSN Categories
coordinate (Wood,
Faux, and Vertical),
and 5 SOS Categories
coordinate with CSN
products.
Real and Faux Wood
Aluminum Headrail –
more durable, and
easy to install
8 Real and Faux Wood
finish options in stock
Cordless Cellular Shades
3 or 4* color offerings
in Light Filtering and
Room Darkening
Fabrics
*depending on RDC
S-Curve slat shape,
Lightmaster feature,
Aluminum headrail,
Colors – White and
Alabaster
6 gauge slat, Dustguard
feature, Lightmaster
feature, Color – White
19 trend right Vertical
Vane finishes,
Reversible headrail, 13
vanes per pack
Five trend right finish
options (2 with privacy
liners) Can be sized to
customer width in
5 brands
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
Six products, not all of
which can be sized
NA
Home Decorator’s
Collection - Plastic
Headrail
HDC - 5 Real and Faux
Wood finish options
3 color offerings
C-curve slat shape,
include route holes,
plastic headrail, colors
– White and Alabaster
4 gauge slat, include
route holes color –
White and Alabaster
7 Vane Finishes, 9
vanes per pack
Five finish options (1
with privacy liner),
Cannot be sized in
store
21
Number of Machines
Warranty
store
1 Blind Cutting
Machine
Limited Lifetime
Warranty
3 Blind Cutting
Machines
“Limited Warranty –
Contact Customer
Service for further
information”
Key Takeaways
Please review the following Key Takeaways after walking the class through
Discover the Difference:
1. Associates only have to learn ONE consistent brand in the stock aisle,
and how to size LEVOLOR blinds and shades on ONE machine.
2. Levolor CSN offers more color and finish options than Home Depot’s
in stock product.
3. Lowe’s associates can offer a wide variety of product coordination
throughout the Levolor CSN and SOS product categories!
“Use You Clues
Activity”
(15 Minutes)
Facilitator’s Note: Use the Consumer Profile to guide the exercise, however
be flexible with the solution given by attendees. The goal of this activity is to
build associate competence in qualifying the consumer and suggesting the
best window solutions. Give the class the Application listed below, and
encourage associates to ask questions to discover the window dimensions,
layout needs, and color scheme. Let associates discover the needed CSN
Window Solution. Ask associates to refer to p.22 in their Participant’s Guides
to take notes.
Use the below first scenario as an example for the class to
demonstrate the exercise. Ask and associate to volunteer as the
Consumer, and you play the Lowe’s Associate to show what a good
job looks like.
SOS/CSN Coordination: (Shown as an example in Participant’s Guide)
Application: First Floor Kitchen and Family Room, open layout.
Window Dimensions: 6 Total Windows, 1 Sliding Door (78”W x 84”L)
and 3 Windows in Family Room (74”W x 72”L), 2 Smaller Windows in
Kitchen (36”W x 64”L).
Color Scheme: Customer used Dark Wood Tones for Kitchen Cabinets
and Family Room Furniture
Suggested CSN/SOS Products: CSN Walnut or Pecan Vertical Blinds
for Sliding Door, CSN Walnut or Pecan Faux Wood Blinds for the 2
windows in Kitchen, SOS Visions Faux Wood for the 3 windows in
Family Room.
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August 2011
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CSN Cordless Cellular Scenario:
Application: Whole House Install – 12 Windows
Window Dimensions: All windows range from 27”W  70”W x 72”L
Home Layout Needs: Customer wants Light Filtering Shade in
Downstairs rooms, but Room Darkening Shades in upstairs bedrooms
Color Scheme: Natural Earth Tones in downstairs rooms to
coordinate with existing décor. Neutral Color in all upstairs bedrooms
to coordinate with various room décor.
Suggested CSN Products: CSN Light Filtering Cordless Cellular Shades
in downstairs rooms – color Sand or Toffee. CSN Room Darkening
Cordless Cellular Shades in upstairs bedrooms – color Snow.
CSN Multi Product Coordination:
Application: Bottom Floor Dining Room and Bedroom – 5 windows
Window Dimensions: Window sizes vary from 19”W 42”W x 60”L
Home Layout Needs: Distressed wood flooring in Dining Room needs
to coordinate with 2” blind product, also needs shades with privacy
liner in Guest Bedroom.
Color Scheme: Rustic/Antique Décor.
Suggested CSN Products: CSN 2” Real Wood – colors Rustic Oak or
Honey Oak finish. CSN Woven Woods with Privacy Line – colors
Cinnamon Bamboo or Natural Bamboo.
CSN CBC Scenario:
Application: Contractor is trying to cover 75 windows in a new High
School in area.
Window Dimensions: All windows are the same size, 42”W x 64”L
School Layout Needs: School needs a 2” product that can provide
Cleanability, Durability, Privacy and Light Control.
Color Scheme: Must have a neutral street side appearance.
Suggested CSN Products: CSN White Faux Wood entered through the
CSN CBC Program in M2O ordering system = 5% discount to
contractor.
______________________________________________________________
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Packaging
Review –
(10 Minutes)
Facilitator’s Note: To promote safety in store, Lowe’s has asked us to review
the following. Please have associates refer to p.23 in their Participant’s
Guide.
Using the end-cap product you brought into training room prior to
class, demonstrate the proper way to remove End Cap packaging
from shelving. Please see photo below for instruction.
Also take this time to demonstrate how to properly re-tape End Cap
packaging after cutting on the CSN Machine.
Take this opportunity to inform attendees that additional Blue Tape
and Pre – Cut Labels are available for PSA’s to order through Spend
Management.
The proper way to remove End Cap
packaging from the product bays is to
support the bottom of the End Cap with one
hand, then guide the rest of the product
packaging in your second hand. Place in cart
to move if possible. If no cart available,
ensure bottom of End Cap is properly taped
or supported.
After cutting Wood/Faux Wood End Cap
packing, please use the pictured taping
method to provide proper support of
packaging for consumer. If any CSN End
Cap packaging in bay is opening, please use
pictured taping technique to secure in bay.
Ordering Blue
Tape and PreCut Labels
Facilitator’s Note: Please review with the class how to order additional
Levolor Blue Tape and Yellow Pre-Cut Labels. Ask the below questions to the
class:
How can Levolor Blue Tape and Yellow Pre-Cut Labels be ordered?
Through Lowe’s Net – in the Spend Management System
In each Lowe’s store, who has access to this system for ordering
purposes? The PSA Department Manager, or the Front End ASM
What are the product codes?
o Levolor Blue Tape – 91008
o Yellow Pre-Cut Labels – 91007
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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Facilitator’s Note:
Ask Associates to review the “Summary” portion shown on p. 24 of
the Participant’s Guide.
Have associates List the “Top 3 Concepts” they will take back to the
sales floor after the Level 2 Course, and notate on p. 25 of their
Participant’s Guide.
Inform associates that in one week there will be a survey posted on
Lowe’s.Net to inquire of their Level 2 experience – associates will
receive notice when it is active online. This survey will be posted for 2
weeks. Please encourage associates to participate in this online
survey, as Levolor values their feedback and takes their opinions
seriously!
_________________________________________________________
Wrap Up/
Ask for it!
(5 Minutes)
Facilitator’s Note: Take the last 5 minutes to Wrap up your class, and ASK
FOR the SOS/CSN business! For examples of ways to “Ask For It”, please see
below.
Please pull the NEW Levolor Vertical, Soft Vertical, and Textured
Blinds Book FIRST when it becomes available and launches on
September 15th!!
Please sell Levolor CSN products CONFIDENTLY, knowing it is the
highest quality in stock program in the industry!
Please continue to support the Levolor CBC programs for all large unit
orders with the SOS and CSN CBC offering!
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION AND CONTINUED SUPPORT
OF THE LEVOLOR BRAND!
_____________________________________________________________
Training Next Steps:
Pass around Registration Sheet, and confirm that each associate has initialed
attendance by their names.
Ensure the HR Manager has a copy of the completed Registration Sheet. Keep a copy for
your records.
Track your 2 Day Level 2 Training in the Training Tracking system to take credit for your
hard work, and to fulfill PMDP metrics for 2011.
(Enter Date > Formal Training Type > SOS/CSN Product Type > list host store > type:
“Level 2 Training, # of associates” in Comments Box)
Use the photos taken throughout the training, insert into the Lowe’s Training Success
Template, and track your sales growth 30, 60, 90 days post training efforts. Send to your
Training Partner, Sales Manager, Team, and External partners at Lowe’.
Post training, refer back to the Level 2 Master Training Schedule and insert the store
numbers that attended.
Levolor Level 2 Training
August 2011
© 2010 Lowe’s Companies, inc.
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