How to gain more customers in 10 steps

If you have a small business it’s likely that you are looking at ways to increase your client database. So if you are keen to turn prospective clients into regular customers, read on for our top 10 tips on how to get more customers.

Check out the competition

It’s always wise to know what your competitors are up to; for example if you’ve heard through the grapevine that your main competitor’s business is close to failing, it could be a good opportunity for you to hone in on their clients.

Attract clients via social media

Every business should have social media accounts, such as Facebook and Twitter, in order to succeed in the current climate. In fact, many prospective clients may go elsewhere if you don’t have a social media account. Making an account is free and not only will it give your business wide exposure, it will also keep your business fresh in your customer’s minds.

Post frequently

Make sure that you post relevant content via social media often – at least 3 times a week – and update your website on a regular basis to keep the content fresh. All this effort will pay off, as it will show potential clients that you are active within your industry and like to keep your customers engaged. A blog on your website is a great way to keep customers engaged, and you could even set up a newsletter sign up form on your website to give your customers interesting information and a reason to visit your website.

Revisit former clients

As we said previously, customers could leave your business at any time. If they have gone to a competitor, it’s worth contacting them to see if they are interested in coming back. It’s quite possible that they’re not really all that happy with the change, and all they need is a little reminder that you’re there.

Testimonials and recommendations

If you don’t already have testimonials on your website, you should have! Use your testimonials page to showcase what your very best clients have to say about you and the outstanding service you have given them. This will give prospective customers confidence that your business can deliver the goods. Literally.

Get personal

Give potential clients a taste of the human side of your business with face-to-face contact. This will result in stronger connections, and will increase the likelihood of more business.

Get recommendations from clients

The best way to get more customers is by word of mouth. If you did a good job for Mrs. so-and-so, she will tell all her friends, family, and post it on social media sites – the list is endless. And because you have been personally recommended you’re more likely to get additional business.

Keep going!

Don’t let unresponsive customers dampen your spirits – take the time to enquire about exactly what they want and try to adapt what you offer to fit in with them, if possible.

Listen

Find out if you’re doing it right by listening to what your existing clients have to say. They can offer valuable information regarding what you’re doing well, and also how you could improve your business. In addition, it could also stop small problems escalating into big problems later on.

Keep at it

Business owners should be searching for new clients on a regular basis. It doesn’t pay to get complacent, as your existing customers could quickly go elsewhere leaving you with no customers.

Finding new clients can be challenging, but armed with a little knowledge, your business could grow and your client base expand, with good customers remaining loyal for many years.