Laurel Tielis
Your current customers are your most valuable resource. When you take care of them, you maintain and grow your business. Make sure they know how much you appreciate them as people, as well as customers, in small as well as large ways.
One easy and inexpensive way to do this, is by getting in touch after someone’s made a purchase. Send off a handwritten note, write an email, or make a quick phone call, asking whether the dress was appropriate for the event, the gift was a success, or the color was a match.
Another way to build relationships is to get in touch regardless of a purchase. A lot of businesses do this at Christmas, but you’ll get more attention if you choose another time of year.
For example, you can send out cards on Independence Day, July 4th, telling customers how much you appreciate their support of your independent business. For Thanksgiving the message might be, I’m thankful to have you as a client and friend. For Valentine’s Day try, I love doing business with you, or Good customers like you are the heart of my business.
Then, you’ll want to get in touch on your customers’ birthdays. Large stores like Loehmann’s and DSW send discount coupons good for a week or even the entire month of the birth date. You can do it in a more personal way by sending an actual birthday card and offering anything from a gift coupon to an invitation to the store and a cupcake saying Happy Birthday.
You can also send out birthday greetings for YOUR birthday. It’s my birthday, you might write, but you get the present. Offer something special to everyone who comes in to celebrate with you.
This serves two functions: It brings customers into your store, and it also makes you more real. It’s another way for you to become more of a friend and less of a salesperson. Here’s a tip. If you’re giving customers a gift, consider a good looking, reusable shopping bag. It’s a great way to green your business and get your name out.
Want more ideas about bringing in business? I can help. I’ve been a retail reporter at Women’s Wear Daily and Home Furnishings News, a columnist at the Miami Herald and a correspondent at People magazine.
I’ve also handled the marketing and public relations at major corporations and small businesses. Need a speaker or a consultant? Get in touch at ringupmoresales@gmail.com. Or, for easy and effective ways to bring in more business, read Ka-Ching! How to Ring Up More Sales.
Copyright © 2011 Laurel Tielis
Filed under: Uncategorized Tagged: | customer engagement, customer loyalty, customer relations, customer retention
