Finding New Customers
Dunn and Bradstreet recently published new research in regard to customer loss in business and surprisingly, they reported that 25% of that loss comes from circumstances that are beyond the control of business owners, employees, products or services. Customer loss can be attributed to the fact that 15% of customers move away, out of the area, and are no longer in close enough proximity to do business and another 10% simply loss interest in the product or service that a company provides. That percentage equates to one fourth of a customer base so replacing lost customers is imperative just to maintain the status quo. If a business is to grow, consistent effort needs to be given to finding new and creative ways to attract new customers. The following tips will give you some simple ideas for attracting new customers even if you are on a shoestring budget.
Existing customers are a prime source for referrals and the most cost effective way to acquire new customers. When your business provides exemplary customer service and has great products or services, your existing customers are out spreading the word, telling friends and family how well they are treated at your establishment and how awesome your products and services are. You can never lose by training your staff to put the customer first and catering to them like you would a guest in your home.
People, in general, feed and thrive off of excitement and are naturally drawn to others who inspire, motivate and create an atmosphere of enthusiasm. To attract new customers to your business, incite them. Entice them with your zeal and create curiosity and anticipation for what your company has to offer. Excitement is contagious so spread it around and watch the magic happen. Make them want to be your customer by providing them with the same respect and courtesy that you expect as a customer.
In order to gain new customers, you need to have your fingers on the pulse of your target market. A savvy business owner knows his target market… what group of people will be enticed to purchase product or service based on their age, ethnic background, sex, etc. Determining your target market gives an added advantage of being able to fine tune marketing strategies to achieve maximum results. A Beauty Consultant and make up retailer should be targeting young to middle-aged women because that is who these products are created for. It would be inappropriate to waste marketing efforts on men, right?
Make sure that you are offering products and services that are designed and created for the market segment that you are trying to reach. Talking to existing customers about the products or services you currently provide and the products or services that they would most be interested in will give you an idea of what changes you need to make to provide for the needs and desires of your market. Consider adding to your line to encompass a broader market segment, bring in new customers and produce more profit.
Lastly, it is important to be a leader in your business. Your staff will take cues from you. If you are down and concerned about the state of affairs in your company, your attitudes will be reflected through them. Whether you have a large sales force or a few staff members on a sales floor, it is important to keep them motivated, informed and knowledgeable of all products and services as well as being well trained in the art of selling and customer service.
Applying these helpful hints to your business will increase sales and bring in the customers you desire. Just remember, whether you feel like it or not, remain positive, set the example, create excitement and watch your efforts grow your business. If you are feeling down and out about your company’s growth, “Never let em see you sweat” and “Fake it until you make it”.
Existing customers are a prime source for referrals and the most cost effective way to acquire new customers. When your business provides exemplary customer service and has great products or services, your existing customers are out spreading the word, telling friends and family how well they are treated at your establishment and how awesome your products and services are. You can never lose by training your staff to put the customer first and catering to them like you would a guest in your home.
People, in general, feed and thrive off of excitement and are naturally drawn to others who inspire, motivate and create an atmosphere of enthusiasm. To attract new customers to your business, incite them. Entice them with your zeal and create curiosity and anticipation for what your company has to offer. Excitement is contagious so spread it around and watch the magic happen. Make them want to be your customer by providing them with the same respect and courtesy that you expect as a customer.
In order to gain new customers, you need to have your fingers on the pulse of your target market. A savvy business owner knows his target market… what group of people will be enticed to purchase product or service based on their age, ethnic background, sex, etc. Determining your target market gives an added advantage of being able to fine tune marketing strategies to achieve maximum results. A Beauty Consultant and make up retailer should be targeting young to middle-aged women because that is who these products are created for. It would be inappropriate to waste marketing efforts on men, right?
Make sure that you are offering products and services that are designed and created for the market segment that you are trying to reach. Talking to existing customers about the products or services you currently provide and the products or services that they would most be interested in will give you an idea of what changes you need to make to provide for the needs and desires of your market. Consider adding to your line to encompass a broader market segment, bring in new customers and produce more profit.
Lastly, it is important to be a leader in your business. Your staff will take cues from you. If you are down and concerned about the state of affairs in your company, your attitudes will be reflected through them. Whether you have a large sales force or a few staff members on a sales floor, it is important to keep them motivated, informed and knowledgeable of all products and services as well as being well trained in the art of selling and customer service.
Applying these helpful hints to your business will increase sales and bring in the customers you desire. Just remember, whether you feel like it or not, remain positive, set the example, create excitement and watch your efforts grow your business. If you are feeling down and out about your company’s growth, “Never let em see you sweat” and “Fake it until you make it”.
