Do you think you are doing all that you can do to attract and retain customers? Have you even put any thought into whether or not you are doing this? If you own a business this should be a top priority for you. Your customers are the bread and butter of your company and without them you would never be able to make a profit. Lets take a look a five different methods to attract and retain your customers for good.
First, listen and act on the feedback that you are getting from your customers
This should be a no-brainer but you’d be amazed at how many companies ignore the feedback that they are getting from their customers because they feel like they know best about their company’s strategy and plan.
People know what they like and don’t like. And if you are lucky enough to have customers vocal enough to share information about what they like and don’t like about your company then you should be listening. Make changes immediately and let your customers know that you changed because they asked you too! They will feel like they had a voice and it was heard. This will make them feel important and at the same time they will remain your customer because they got a product or service that they wanted and you were compassionate enough to listen and deliver it.
Prospective customers need to be given an extra bit of attention and support. If you are making them feel better than how your competition is making them feel, chances are they will be choosing you in the end.
Next, be confident about your brand and your business and stand behind them
If you show indifference and lazy attitudes about your business and brand it will show. When you don’t love your brand, and what it stands for, surprise…others will begin to feel the same about it. Negativity rubs off easily and in a big way. Don’t ever mention to your customers your lack of enthusiasm about your current brand or identity. If you are that unhappy with it, change it! Your brand should be consistent across all mediums: print, web, commercials and even trade show booths. If you are noticing inconsistencies in your branding so are your customers.
Be optimistic!
Managing your company is an ongoing series of tasks. Sometimes these tasks can be unpleasant and feel repetitive but they are essential to the flow of your company on a daily basis. You will have to deal with constant emails, phone calls and problems. This is the inherent nature of a business. It will never be perfect so you need to get used to the idea. If you are always pessimistic about the daily issues that come up it will reflect on your clients and customers. Handle every issue and problem with a positive attitude. You’ll get back what you put out there and trust me you will be amazed at the results you get with a simple change in attitude. Lower your expectations in every aspect of your business and you can’t be disappointed.
Don’t expect instant results
Here is a news flash! Building a successful brand takes time. Be patient. Coca-cola wasn’t a recognizable name in a week. It took a lot of hard work, marketing and advertising to make it a household name. But also make sure your brand evolves throughout time to match consumer desires and trends.
Lastly, think outside the box
Don’t always conform and copy what your competition is doing. There are times when you shouldn’t mess with what works but there is nothing wrong with coming up with a new and creative way to market your brand or advertise. The most successful marketing campaigns are different and memorable. Geico is a great example of a company thinking outside the box and taking a chance at some creative advertising. Their commercials may be goofy and ridiculous but you remember them don’t you? I challenge you to find someone who doesn’t know about the “caveman” ads.
