How to Gain New Customers

After more than 10 years of business experience I have learned how to gain new customers over the years. When I began in the 90s things were different, but many of those methods still work. However, things changed and the Internet offered more opportunities for business owners. Needless to say, I have learned a lot and today I will reveal some of what I've learned. Read on to learn how to gain new customers.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Offer discounts. Why not offer a discount for referrals? Let your potential customer know that if they refer a friend or family member you will give them a discount off any purchase they make. In addition, let them know their friend or family member will receive the same discount.
2. Run a contest. On occasion, you could give away a free product or service that you offer. Contests attract new customers.
3. Participate in forums related to the sales and services you offer. Partake by giving advice and answering questions.
4. Write and self-publish an e-book related to the products and services you offer.
5. Write and submit articles to article directories. At the end of each article you write and submit, include a short bio about yourself and your experience, and then add the link to your website.
6. Start a blog. Many businesses have started blogs related to the products and services they offer. If you have no writing experience, hire an experienced writer to make blog posts for you. Most writers charge anywhere from $10 and up per blog post. Once you start this blog, keep it updated by adding new posts on a daily or weekly basis.
7. Learn more about the products you sell. A good salesperson knows their products well, so learn all you can about the products you sell in case your customers have question. For example, if you sell software, install the software on your computer and use it so that you will become more familiar with the features and benefits of using the software.
8. Reveal your contact information. Your potential customers may be leery of you if you don't show any contact information on your Website. So, because you are in business, make sure to reveal your phone number, fax number, name, the name of your company and your address.
9. Offer CyberMonday sales every week. If you are in the business of selling, then you should already be familiar with CyberMonday sales, which usually take place once a year (after Thanksgiving). However, instead of offering these big savings once a year only, why not offer them on a weekly or monthly basis.
10. Respond to inquires within 24 to 48 hours. When a customer emails you, don't keep them waiting. Yes, you may be busy and swamped with emails, so set aside at least one or two hours to read and respond to emails each day. If you keep them waiting too long, you may lose a sale.

Tips & Warnings

• Send a press release and advertise every sale, discount and contest you offer.
• No matter what, always treat your customers the way you want to be treated when you are shopping online or locally.
• Don't spam the forums you join. The link to your website should be a part of your signature. Spamming the forums will get you banned.