Running a successful small business is all about working with your customers and keeping them satisfied. After all, they could just as easily get the same goods or services from a larger, impersonal company. Instead, they choose to work with a small business for the personal touch. These three tips can help you maximize those relationships so you achieve better sales even in difficult market conditions.
- Create Community Connections
Get your business involved in the local community. Work to develop connections, with other similar or related businesses or with nonprofit or public organizations that are working to improve conditions for area residents. The more you are invested in the local community, the better known your name will become. It also generates a connection, which helps build trust with new customers.
- Keep Detailed Records
Don’t just assume that your staff will remember details about customers. Instead, keep records of important dates, purchase histories and personal preferences. This will let you develop an accurate and comprehensive picture of them that goes beyond a name and set of numbers. Using a CRM can help simplify this process. Salesforce lead reporting Chicago makes it easy to keep track of new and prospective customers no matter where they are in the sales funnel.
- Offer a Loyalty Program
Reward current customers by offering a loyalty program. It might be as simple as punch cards that provide a free item after a set number of purchases. Or, you can send out special coupons on birthdays or anniversaries. Perhaps it is better for your business to offer a seasonal discount, such as during tax season or right before a major holiday. No matter what you choose, make sure it is appropriate for your business and appeals to the majority of your existing customer base.
No matter the economic climate, there are steps small businesses can take to build their customer base and increase sales. Create connections in the local community, build relationships with existing customers and keep detailed records for the best results.
