Because your customers come in all shapes and sizes.
In the days of cell phones, Skype, email, IM and chat, we have more ways than ever to throw open the doors to two-way communication with our clientele. Your clients want to talk to you. You want to talk to them. Successful communication between you and the people who keep your business moving forward is the key to sustaining your business.
When was the last time you reached out to touch someone?
We laugh when we hear people say it, but over and over again what we’re hearing is that customers no longer want to feel as though they’re part of the crowd. In an earlier post on personalization we mentioned that your ROI increases significantly when you remember to personalize. That’s not just a smoke screen.
Studies show that today’s clientele is sick and tired of feeling like they’re getting shuffled in with the crowd. They want to be unique. They want to stand out. They want businesses to realize that they’re one in a million and they expect to be treated accordingly.
Waiting for your customers to come to you is a mistake. It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in, your competition is stalking your customers. They’re waiting for you to drop the ball so they can swoop in, and you can guarantee they’re going to get there before your customers pick up the phone.
Make follow-up calls part of your daily routine. Encourage your customer service people to get to know the people they talk to. I’m not saying they have to spend an hour on the phone with them, but a short conversation can make the difference a) in finding extra value, and b) in making them feel like someone appreciates their business.
The next time a customer walks into your store, take the time to say hello. The next time you fill an order, make a phone call a day or two later. A little personal attention will go a long way toward turning a one-time sale into a long-term customer.
It’s here! “5 Easy Steps to Turn a Lukewarm Lead into a Red-Hot Customer” is available to new mailing list subscribers, chock full of tips to help you convert your leads. Check it out at www.EastRidgePrint.com.