subject: How To Provide Your Customers With Something Extra [print this page] How To Provide Your Customers With Something Extra
Business owners, especially those who own retail establishments, understand how important it is to give customers a reason to remember you. They may love your products and feel comfortable shopping in your store, but with so many options, it can be tough to really stand out. You need to be creative and one step ahead of your competition when it comes to making an impression. The important thing is to stay fresh in their minds so when they need the type of product you sell, you are the first company they think of. One of the ways to do this is to send them off not just with what they have purchased, but with something in which to carry it that is attractive and easy to use. This not only makes buying your products easier for them, it shows others your company name and proves your store is worth shopping at. Carryout bags and company bags is a great way to do this. Offer colorful options that allow your business name to be easily read.Once you get customers in the door, you need to make their shopping experience fun and you need to give them reasons to return. Holding contests and offering prizes is a great way to enhance the shopping experience. Customers think they are getting something for nothing because all a prize requires is filling out an entry form. Waiting for a drawing prize gives them a reason to stick around or a reason to come back. It also enables you to collect contact information from them so you are able to reach out in the future.Special events are one of the best times to offer drawings and prizes. You can plan events like customer appreciation days, holiday celebrations, and special sales. In addition to contests and prizes, offer customers visiting during special events coupons and discounts, access to limited merchandise, and special attention like personal shopping, food options, or opportunities to save at other stores in your area.You can plan all the special events and giveaways in the world, but if you do not offer quality customer service, it will be for nothing. Speak with employees and make sure they take enough pride in their jobs to treat customers well. Offer incentives to them too for doing a great job. It is important that customers feel as if everyone is happy to be a part of their transaction.Finally, be sure you are reaching out to customers and potential customers online. One of the major ways people will learn about your place of business online, so if you do not have an Internet presence, you are at a disadvantage. Create a website and be sure to keep it maintained and updated. Find ways to direct customers to your site and offer them incentives for returning. Remember, if you provide coupons and discounts online, it can translate to sales that otherwise may not have happened. Using a combination of these ideas will lead to a boost in business and build relationships with customers that will be long-lasting.
