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Culver’s Sticky Secret: How Small Details at Culver’s Improve Customer Experience

Feb 19

A picture of a car's side mirror with a Culver's sticky note to improve their customer experience

Simple Yet Smart: A Mom’s Tribute to an Ingeniously Simple Approach

As a 37-year-old working mom and sales expert, I’m constantly analyzing everyday interactions through the lens of business and customer service. It’s second nature at this point—whether I’m helping clients hone their sales processes or just trying to manage my own busy life. Blame the day job.

When Culver’s opened in our town last year, it quickly became a family favorite. My girls are obsessed with their pretzels, and with it being conveniently positioned near our preschool, I’ve had plenty of opportunities to study their operations during our visits. One detail that’s caught my attention is their brilliant Post-it note system. It’s a perfect example of how small details improve customer experience in big ways.

A Simple Yet Effective Detail That Enhances Customer Experience

Yes, we’re talking about Post-it notes—one designed to stick on your side-view mirror when the weather’s nice and another designed to cling to the inside of your car window when it’s raining. It’s a small but genius touch that demonstrates how thoughtful details enhance customer interactions while also streamlining efficiency.

How This Small Touch Creates a Better Customer Experience

Here’s the setup: You order at Culver’s, park in a designated spot, and use one of two types of Post-it notes to mark your car for delivery. On sunny days, they attach the regular adhesive note to your side-view mirror. On rainy days, the drive-thru attendant hands you a reverse sticky note that clings to the inside of your window—no need to roll down your window or get soaked.

This system lets employees quickly identify and deliver your order without confusion or unnecessary delays. It’s an example of how small adjustments create a better customer experience while keeping operations running smoothly.

Why Small Details Make a Big Difference in Customer Satisfaction

As someone who lives and breathes sales and customer experience, I’m always on the lookout for ways businesses can create smoother, more satisfying interactions. Culver’s Post-it system stands out for three key reasons:

1. Customer-Focused Thinking

Culver’s has clearly mapped out the customer experience from start to finish. They understand that on a sunny day, reaching out to your side-view mirror is no big deal. But on a rainy day? The reverse sticky note keeps the process simple and dry.

This level of thoughtfulness makes a big difference—especially for someone like me, juggling kids in the backseat and trying to avoid a mess. It’s a small yet powerful reminder that customer satisfaction often comes down to the little things.

2. Faster, More Efficient Service

With this system, Culver’s eliminates guesswork for their team. Employees don’t need to peek through foggy windows or run back and forth to confirm an order. They can focus on delivering food as quickly and accurately as possible, keeping the line moving and customers happy. It’s proof that a seamless customer experience starts with efficiency.

3. High Impact, Low Cost

The genius here lies in its simplicity. There’s no high-tech solution, no costly equipment—just Post-it notes, tailored to weather conditions. It’s a reminder that small innovations can transform customer satisfaction without requiring major investments.

Lessons for Entrepreneurs: How Small Improvements Boost Customer Experience

As someone who teaches entrepreneurs, small business owners, and freelancers the art of selling, I see Culver’s Post-it system as a masterclass in designing a seamless customer experience. Here’s what we can all take away:

  • Anticipate Customer Needs: Think about every step of your customer’s journey. What potential frustrations can you eliminate?
  • Adapt to Different Scenarios: Just like Culver’s prepared for sunny and rainy days, your business should be ready to succeed no matter the conditions.
  • Keep Solutions Simple: You don’t need to reinvent the wheel to improve your customer experience. Sometimes, small details make the biggest impact.

The Sales Connection

Great sales isn’t just about closing deals—it’s about creating an experience that builds trust and loyalty. Culver’s Post-it system does exactly that. It shows they care about their customers’ comfort and time, which is what drives repeat business and word-of-mouth recommendations.

At the end of the day, how small details improve customer experience is something every business should take seriously.

Looking to refine your own customer experience and sales strategy? Our team can help you implement simple yet impactful solutions that drive loyalty and growth (Inquire with us HERE). Contact us today to get started! Whether it’s a restaurant, a service-based business, or an online store, paying attention to the finer points of customer interactions can make all the difference.