In any business, customers are the raison d’etre. Generating interest in your products or services requires ongoing effort, and we’ve got several foolproof ways to help you do it without breaking the bank.
Five Great Ways to Build Your Customer Base
1. Networking
For entrepreneurs and small businesses that base their operations out of flexible office spaces like Business Workspaces, there are many opportunities to network with those in similar industries. If using a co-working space, brainstorm with others about methods they have found successful or unproductive and see how these fit within your framework. Better yet, join forces with another business with the same target market and share databases, known as a host-beneficiary arrangement.
Get involved with your local business association or Chamber of Commerce. Service clubs like Rotary International are an excellent resource for networking and provide many opportunities to network with other business professionals globally and within your community.
2. Online Presence
Websites promoting stale news and expired offers are a turnoff. Keep your site current and add a blog or news page that reflects your business today and encourages return visits. Maintain an active social media presence, especially on sites where your customers hang out.
A growing trend is sites that offer new daily deals by promoting a discounted service or product. These sites attract new customers, and people keep coming back to see what’s new.
3. Referrals
A proven strategy to gain new customers is through word-of-mouth from satisfied customers and business suppliers. Always ask for referrals and provide an incentive if needed. Thanking your referral sources with rewards keep them onside and talking about you.
4. Traditional Advertising
Realize your advertising goals by ensuring that you select the best most appropriate outlet to reach your target market. For example, you may not see ROI if you promote a Shakespearean production on a country radio station. You want to send the right message in brief but effective terminology, outlining how great your product or service is and how it will benefit your customer.
There are several media avenues to consider when advertising. All have benefits and detractors, so choose the right fit and negotiate the best price. There may also be trade publications and websites that offer special advertising rates for your industry.
5. Hosting a Workshop, Seminar, or Introductory Event
Hosting an introductory event is an informal way of welcoming new customers, especially when you encourage existing customers to bring friends and colleagues. Add some tasteful incentives such as first-time discounts, reduced rate memberships, or bring-a-friend giveaways.
Providing informational workshops or seminars are also handy tools in your kit. If you work from a permanent location, temporary office spaces offer professional staff assistance and comfortable, attractive private boardrooms and meeting facilities at reasonable rates.
By following through with your research, keeping your online presence current, and networking, you can create a marketing plan that will help attract new customers to your business. Thanking your existing customers and business contacts goes a long way, encouraging them to provide referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations.
If you don’t have a permanent location, consider the many benefits of a virtual office through a professional office solutions service like Business Workspaces. It will give you a high-profile permanent address and contact info for your customers.
