Target requires employees to smile at customers to help boost sales

(CNN, KYMA) - As the holiday season fast approaches, Target is urging its employees to add a little more "jolly" to their work routine.

Store employees are now required to smile if they are within ten-feet of a shopper. They also have to make eye contact with and wave to or greet the customer.

If they're within four-feet, the employee should ask how the customer's day is going or if they need help.

Bloomberg News reports it's part of a new guidance program from Target. The incoming CEO is aiming to make stores more hospitable and turn around a trend of weak sales.

Target said there are important consumer metrics that improve when customers were greeted.