The search for new customers never stops. You should always be on the lookout for potential customers, even if you have plenty of work. It takes time to build relationships and you never know when you will come across an opportunity. Here are 7 unique methods to find new customers.
Ask for referrals
The best customers come through word of mouth. A satisfied customer tells others about your shop, and so new customers already know what you have to offer. Don't wait for this to happen automatically, but actively ask for it. Make it a habit in your operations. If a customer says something positive, immediately ask if they know anyone who would also be interested in your products.
A cheese shop can ask satisfied customers if they know any friends or relatives who also enjoy unique cheeses and wines. For each referral, a reward can follow for the person who recommends the new customer.
Join social media groups
Social media is important for finding new customers. Are you active in groups? There are groups for every topic. These are places where people get together and share interests. By being active, more people will see you.
For an organic shop, it might be interesting to join groups on healthy eating or sustainability. Share information about your organic products and their origins.
Speak at local events
Find events and fairs to speak at. Share your knowledge with people and you will find new customers. Give a presentation on something related to your work and encourage people to follow you online. By teaching them something useful, you will build a relationship.
A deli can give a tasting and presentation on French cheeses at a local food fair.
Organise webinars
Organise online events through webinars. The advantage of webinars is that you don't have to be physically present. They are cheap and people from anywhere can participate. As you share your knowledge, you build rapport with participants.
As a butcher, you can hold a simple webinar on different cutting techniques and tips for preparing meat.
Send press releases
Send a press release when you have news about your business. There are websites where you can post press releases and media will pick them up. Use press releases on your website or social media as well.
For example, as an organic shop, you can inform the press about a new collaboration with a local organic farm.
Write guest blog posts
Guest blogging helps you reach a new audience. Approach blogs in your niche and ask if you can write a post. They get free content and you get more exposure. Write regularly for blogs with many readers.
A cheese shop can write a blog for a local food blog about the best combinations of wine and cheese.
Create free informative products
Give away free informative products. These products are cheap and easy to make. Put them on your website so customers can download them in exchange for their email address. After that, you can contact them via email.
Create a free guide on choosing the right piece of meat for different occasions at your butcher shop.
Create a strategic marketing mix
Always look for new ways to promote your shop. Add new marketing channels one by one and see what works. Over time, you will have a set of techniques to find new customers.
An example:
- Start with social media: Create a Facebook page and post regular updates.
- Add email marketing: Send a monthly newsletter with offers and news.
- Try local events: Hand out flyers at markets or fairs.
- Use word of mouth: Ask satisfied customers to recommend you to friends and family.
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