There are a few key items that you need to look at when you are in business
. You have to be able to think out of the box to keep up with the competition. When you take the time to sit back and really consider what you need to do you will realize that there are three basic areas to look at. If you can take care of these three then you will be much better able to succeed.
NEW CUSTOMERS - You must continually bring new customers into your business and there are many forms of advertising that can help you promote your business to new people. Advertising in local newspapers can be a very effective way to attract new customers. Also, using referral rewards, like promotional products can really help to generate referrals and referrals and a referral business is the best type of business to have.
Other than getting new customers you need to work on keeping the ones that you have currently. Although having good customer service is the best thing to have and give to customers you can do more. Collect whatever contact info that they will give you. You can use this to stay in touch with them and to send them info from time to time when you are running specials.
Advertising with promotional products will mean a great deal to getting brand recognition. You will also be able to get your company name out in the community by using these. They are good for advertising and for customer satisfaction. People love to get free stuff. If you want to get your new customers to remember your company and be more likely to return then these items are great for new folks.
You need to learn all that you can about business so that you can keep your company going when times are hard. Just because someone owns a business does not mean that they necessarily know what they are doing. Therefore learning is important. It is also good to stay open to new ideas and don't let things get stale.