Stuck in a rut creating the same marketing campaigns that bring limited results? Try these 4 easy marketing tactics that will help you secure long-term sales for your small business.
1. Ask for reviews
It may seem daunting to ask, but it will be worth it.
An estimated 86% of people read online reviews before deciding if a business is any good or not.
They’re also a big factor in how Google ranks your business.
If say, you have a bulk of reviews on Facebook, built up over a period of time, Google may well prioritise your business over others in search results.
It’s not guaranteed of course, other factors play a part (like content, keywords and social interaction) however, it’s a good start in helping your business get found online.
Google values reviews from all reputable websites like Facebook, TripAdvisor, Airbnb, Checkatrade and Google’s own business pages.
You can also use them in your website, BIO, Instagram stories, Facebook posts, sales emails and newsletters.
Make it easy for customers by adding a link to review sites in thank you emails, or on the receipt.
2. Create a marketing calendar
Plan some promotions in advance.
You’ll reap the benefits.
Instead of waiting for sales to take a dip before you create some promotions, be proactive and have some ready for the year ahead.
You can take your time to craft some savvy and attractive campaigns ready to go – at typically quiet times, or to boost trade in the busy times.
It will boost sales, and save you time in the long-run.
Give yourself a day (or more) to think about your business and the year ahead.
- When are the quiet times?
- What’s coming up in the New Year?
- What are your customers planning for?
- How can you reach them and on what platforms?
- What can you do differently this year?
Plan your campaigns and future promotions on a calendar or simple spreadsheet:
- Add key dates, events coming up, promotion and content ideas
- Allow plenty of time to write the copy and create branded visuals
- Build momentum leading up to an event or product launch with a run of creative campaigns
- Try ‘sneak-peak’ or ‘early-bird offer’
- Or some helpful and inspiring blogs or social media posts
Create customer personas to help you focus on your most profitable customers (they really do help).
3. Capture your customer’s email
Don’t underestimate email marketing.
You can focus on building your brand with key customers – existing and prospects.
It’s more personal and targeted than social media.
For example:
You can make a great first impression in a thank-you or confirmation email.
Really show-off your brand and good customer service.
You can also send personalised offers to groups of target customers.
Like past customers, event attendees, or prospects who have signed up to your newsletter.
From experience, the key is to build a clean and relevant database of email addresses.
Always update your email list.
Give incentives to encourage people to sign up to newsletters – discounts or competitions.
4. Reward and entice customers to come back
Loyalty is the Queen of business.
Attracting customers back, is easier than finding new ones.
Do you have a process in place to attract customers back?
- Bonuses and treats for regular customers
- Thank-you cards with a discount for the next order
- Loyalty schemes – points cards or discounts for repeat custom
- Personalised offers for past customers (you’ll need their email address)
- Refer a friend discount
- A responsive and customer focused approach with social media
- Excellent customer service. It will give you the edge
I hope you enjoyed this blog.
If you would like me to write some inspiring and helpful content for your business let’s chat.
Vanessa