By Ignus K
Building a new client list can seem like an overwhelming task because, as a business owner, you’re keenly aware that your client base is the lifeblood of your company – and a steady stream of new customers allows you to grow your business. So where do you start?
Try these 10 steps to help get more clients for your business.
1. ASK FOR A REFERRAL
Referrals are one of the best ways to get new customers and you can do this by implementing a system for actively soliciting referrals from your satisfied customers. Build referral-generating activity into the sales process by sending a follow-up e-mail that asks for a reference after a customer has received their order from your e-commerce site. You can also ask your sales team to ask for referrals when they follow up with customers.
2. DO MORE NETWORKING
You can generate word-of-mouth contacts by participating in networking organisations and events relevant to your industry and your customers. The current pandemic lockdowns will make it difficult to network in person, but many business networks offer excellent online networking systems. Social media platforms like LinkedIn are also an excellent way to build new connections.
3. OFFER DISCOUNTS AND INCENTIVES FOR NEW CUSTOMERS ONLY
Introductory offers, such as a three-week online course, can attract curious customers by providing a low-risk way to try your products or services. Be sure to track which customers redeem the special offer, then target them with marketing message encouraging and enticing them to keep buying from you.
4. CONTACT OLD CUSTOMERS
Go through your customer database on a regular basis and, after six months or a year without an interaction or purchase, reach out to previous customers with a friendly follow-up or a special offer via e-mail or phone. They might be glad that you remembered them and want to win them back.
5. IMPROVE YOUR WEBSITE
These days, consumers find new businesses primarily by searching online. This means that your website is a vital component in attracting new customers. Give your website a regular review to check that the design, copy, graphics, forms and SEO are up-to-date. It’s important to ensure that every page has some kind of call-to-action, allowing the visitor to make contact with you or gather more information.
Remember that managing your contacts and potential clients should be done responsibly as part of the new Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI). There are excellent cloud-based options through online accounting services such as Xero that can help you maintain your database properly.
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