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The Winning Formula for Nelson Coleman Jewelers is Communication, Commitment and Community—AGS Jewelers Speak Series September 11, 2023 (0 comments)

Baltimore, MD--The Centurion in collaboration with The American Gem Society (AGS) continues our new editorial series featuring informative, Q&A style interviews with AGS retailers. Entitled "AGS Jewelers Speak," this third article in the series presents a look at what's new and exciting at retailer Nelson Coleman Jewelers, as detailed by Amanda Coleman-Phelps, president & CEO.

The Centurion: Please tell us about the latest change(s) to your store and its/their success

Amanda Coleman-Phelps: Our changes have been very much towards our approach to operations. We opened two locations in 2023, Nelson Coleman Jewelers in Frederick, MD and Nelson Coleman Jewelers in Easton, MD. We use the Entrepreneurial operating System (EOS) to conduct business internally to assure that we are provide the proper communication to all departments so that our clients have a seamless experience with us. We completed our brand guidelines and utilized those to make sure that while all of our store provide the clients who reside in the towns we operate in the comforts of home, that our brand is easily recognizable and trusted. 

TC: Please tell us about a recent successful promotion or campaign

ACP: We recently have launched our Chris Coleman Enrichment Program through our social media and community outlets to gain a wider reach which gives back 10% to any organization of non-profit of our client’s choice with every full price purchase. We have donated over six figures since its inception and it is our hope that we will continue to grow and help the communities in which we reside.

[Nelson Coleman Jewelers, Frederick, MD]

TC: How do you differentiate your store from other businesses competing for your customer's purchases?

ACP: Our true differentiation is our Chris Coleman Enrichment Program mentioned earlier and also how we view “competition.” It is our goal to partner with every independent jeweler we can to strengthen our industry being stronger together. This is why AGS is such a great partner for us. They are an inclusive organization that promotes collaboration between neighbors. Our fellow independents should be a source of sustainability not our competition and this is how we operate. A mindset of abundance.

TC: What is your most important focus right now and why?

ACP: Our most important focus is our team members and how we can make sure that our process and procedures allow them to function in their highest and best capacity.  We hire and fire around our core values, “Open to All,” “Guide through Education,” “We make it easy,” “Devoted to community” and “Thrive through Change.” These are the promises we make to our team, our customer and each other. Making sure we have the right process and procedures in place to make these commitments truly and consistently is how we will make sure we stay in business for another 165 years.

[Nelson Coleman Jewelers, Easton, MD]

TC: As a member of AGS, what value or benefits have you found in being part of this community, and how has it helped you in your business operations?

ACP: Being a member of AGS, it’s easy to get involved. There is something for everyone and something to bring to everyone in your company. From continuing education to committees, you truly are a part of a “give to get” organization with AGS. I have dove in head first and still only have scratched the surface of what AGS can do. If nothing else, AGS is a way to surround yourself with some of the most caring and brightest minds in in our industry giving you no option but to succeed.  

ABOUT AGS: The American Gem Society (AGS), founded in 1934 by Robert M. Shipley, is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to ethics, knowledge, and consumer protection within the jewelry industry. AGS awards credentials for its members, who are held to the industry's highest standards and must pass annual recertification examinations to maintain their titles. Members of the AGS are passionate about jewelry and dedicated to creating a positive buying experience for their customers. Visit americangemsociety.org to learn more or contact membership@ags.org