From time immemorial to the present, people selling their products and services vied for their customers’ attention, coming up with ways to attract their target market. With technology getting more sophisticated, the sky is the limit for business owners nowadays. But promoting your brand doesn’t only mean using these innovations to your advantage. You can still go back to the tried and tested ways to attract consumers.
As a small business pitting against the big names, what can you do to make your company stand out? Here are five, inexpensive ways you can do to shine brighter.
1. Use Social Media
Ah, social media. Who doesn’t have an account to his name? It’s a good way to connect with people from around the world, and yes, an even better way to connect with your customers. Use Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or Google + to your advantage and make sure to update regularly.
Aside from your blog, it’s a faster and more effective way of telling your customers about your company’s new products.
2. Use Branded Promotional Items
Mobile phone stands, caps, mugs, bags and a lot of items can be customized with your company’s name on them. This is one of the most effective ways of marketing. For example, customizable pens are often passed from one person to another.
“Got a pen I can borrow?” is a line that can push your business on top of people’s head.
3. Be Strict About Customer Service
Whether you have a staff of 10 or 5, it’s important to let each one know that a customer’s experience is enhanced through excellent customer service. It doesn’t matter if it’s a simple query about your business; treat each person inquiring as someone important. “Word of mouth” is a tool that you can use to your advantage.
Once a consumer spreads the word about your excellent services, you’ll no doubt be expecting more people to buy from you.
4. Update Blog Regularly
Your blog section is a way to connect with your customers. Aside from regularly updating them about your business, you’ll get to interact with them through their comments and feedback. But avoid the pitfalls of a blog that has no relevance to your customers’ needs. If you’re genuinely passionate about helping them, you’ll be able to come up with topics and news that can help them.
Start discussions by making sure to include a “call to action”.
5. Listen to Customers’ Complaints
For most of us, it’s quite hard to accept criticisms especially if you think that they’re uncalled for. But delve deep into what your customer is saying and you might just get an idea or two from him. He might be unconsciously giving out suggestions which can greatly help your business. Most of the time, it’s just a matter of keeping an open mind and listening to what your customer has to say.
It’s also a way for you to avoid making the same mistakes with others.
In conclusion, by employing these five ways to make your company stand out from the crowd, you’ll be paving the way for sweet success.