How to Build a Customer Base in India
Having a sound customer base is one of the most basic requirements of any business looking for stability in the long run. Contrary to popular belief, a good customer base is an automatic development if you are honest and fair in your dealings. But here we will discuss how you can expand, cement that base and use it to the maximum. All you need are some basic marketing skills, and a smile on your face.
Having a sound customer base is one of the most basic requirements of any business looking for stability in the long run. Contrary to popular belief, a good customer base is an automatic development if you are honest and fair in your dealings. But here we will discuss how you can expand, cement that base and use it to the maximum. All you need are some basic marketing skills, and a smile on your face.
- Always remember, the people who are well connected are like gold in the marketing world. Treat them well. That doesn’t mean you should neglect others; just that in case of well-connected people, ensure nothing goes wrong. Ask them about their experience, ask them for suggestions, and refer you to their friends if they want.
- Everyone should get a bonus for referrals, be it in the form of discount coupons, or gift vouchers. That way, more and more people will refer you to their friends if they like the shopping experience at your place. Always keep track of customer satisfaction.
- Always keep track of how the new customers are getting to know you. Emphasize on that tool to market yourself. Ask the customers politely, if they were referred by anyone or it was your website that drew them in. Next time, improve on the one that draws in the crowds.
- You can try something like a reward program for a frequent customer, just to keep things interesting. For example, a customer who has had 15 services can have the 16th one for free. This will help you in keeping the customers hooked.
- The internet is a marketer’s paradise. Use it. Design an explosive website; something unique and something that catches on. Describe your product in the best way that you can, in short. Update the website from time to time. Keep an option so that the customer can register to stay updated with company newsletters and latest news.
- You can never ignore the local customer base that you can have. Advertise with the yellow pages in your area, use banners and other forms of print media to inform customers of your service. Treat local customers well. They can be the most valued source of reference.
- Always distribute free business cards. It may cost a small investment up front, but the kind of free advertisement that you will get out of it will be worth millions. Keep the cards jazzy and relevant to your services.
- Get some friends to endorse your company on their vehicles. Create small readable but catchy stickers and use the moving vehicle as a mobile advertisement.
- Distribute business cards wherever you can. You never know where you will meet a potential new customer. Do not be shy or cheap about handing them out. Everyone should know you – even the ones who can’t afford you.
- Build a personal relation with your clients. Send holiday postcards with special coupons with expiration dates. Do not send huge letters hoping they will read them. Nobody has the time.
- Being an Indian, discounts always catch our eyes. In India, sales and discounts can sell really well and be very effective.