As a business leader, you are no doubt aware of how important a constant stream of customers having access to your business is important. Customers allow you to not only grow your company but also invest in innovative strategies that can make your products or services that much better. However, every company, both small and large, will run into a dry patch every once in a while. This is especially prevalent within small businesses as they have yet to create that stable foundation of loyal customers. Therefore, the following list includes some of the best ways to reach out to new customers.
Narrow Your Target
One of the biggest advantages a small company has over the Amazons or Apples of the world is the ability to narrow down their target audience. Although you might not be able to compete against your larger competitors, it does not mean you can’t earn a piece of the market. The best way to accomplish this is to narrow your target. This used to be a very difficult thing to do, but thanks to innovations in technology, finding your ideal target audience is quite simple. A great way to find them is to utilize social media. Social media provides you with the opportunity to test various ads to various groups of people. It might take you a couple of test ads to get a clear picture, but it is certainly not impossible.
Utilize Social Media
Earlier, the strategy of utilizing social media to find your target audience was mentioned. However, that is not the only thing it can be used for. Once you have your target audience, then you are afforded the opportunity to sell them on your products or services. Through your social media platforms, you are able to remove a large portion of a customer’s concerns. The fact is that most people will hesitate before purchasing from an unknown company. Your social media platforms can be used to showcase all your products with videos, pictures, and live demonstrations. In addition, it can also serve as a contact medium where customers can ask anything they want, and you can answer those questions, thus presenting yourself as a company that truly cares.
Free Advertising Sites
You might think that posting on classified ads or “Free advertising sites” is beneath you or that it’s simply too out of date. The fact is that this is often an error in judgment that companies often find out too late. According to Podium, using free advertising sites can help more traffic reach your site and increase your company’s revenue. Some sites can benefit your business by highlighting categories that are directly related to your business or help you reach larger, more engaged audiences. Some of the most popular websites include Craigslist, Gumtree, and even eBay, in some cases. It is recommended to research thoroughly your selected website before posting any information regarding your business.
Ask for Referrals
Customer referrals are one of the best strategies to implement in your day-to-day business. However, if you think that your current customers are simply going to start writing their friend’s name for you, then you might be waiting for a long time. The best method to implement is to ask your salespeople to ask for referrals when the sale is being finalized. You could also send a mass email to satisfied customers.
Build Partnerships
One of the lesser-known methods of obtaining new customers is to partner up with other businesses in your area. Note that it is recommended to partner with companies that compliment your product and not the competitors. An example of two complementary companies is fitness facilities and supplement stores. Both can promote each other’s services by partnering up, thus providing each other with more customers. It should be noted that you nurture the relationships you have with other business leaders. If they feel like you are taking advantage of them or not providing enough value, it can hurt your reputation with other companies.
Participate in Your Community
Most people admit that they would rather support a local company than one of the more established stores. However, people can’t support you if they don’t know who you are, what you sell, or where you are located. A great way to show that you care about your community and pick up a few customers along the way is to donate your time. This can be done in a collective effort with your employees — volunteer to help out during a community festival or parade. You could even conduct a food or toy drive that would no doubt make the evening news.
Finding customers is, no doubt, one of the most difficult challenges small businesses face. With a limited budget and manpower, it can be a daunting task. However, it is not impossible. So, the next time your company is in need of customers, simply adhere to the list of strategies above to make it happen.
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