Issue link: https://docs.hic.us/i/403552
This is especially useful for a home-based business, where you are generally hidden from the public. If your equipment will allow it, consider setting up shop periodically in another location. For example, team up with a local Sporting Goods Store one Saturday afternoon. . You can provide personalization services for customers that buy his merchandise. Its a win-win situation. He sells more product, you get valuable exposure. If you have never run a machine in public, you will be amazed at the response. Its like a magnet! When people see the machine running, they will be determined to buy something that was done on it. Continue the relationship with the store even when you aren't there. Our earliest accounts were with Sporting Goods Stores, and they kept us busy! 10. Network - Be Involved. Your best bet at building a customer base is to simply be involved. If you are seen and become well-known, other Companies will soon be sending business your way. On the other hand, if you are relatively obscure, then you will have a hard time bringing in new accounts. So, immerse yourself in local activities. Join the Chamber of Commerce, and local Civic Groups. Volunteer when you can. Make sure the other members of the business community know who you are and what you do. You can spend hundreds of dollars on Advertising, but nothing is as effective as "word of mouth". Building a customer base is initially done through your promotional and marketing efforts. But long-term it takes more than just exposure to the masses. You must center your business around customer service and quality. Sure their are plenty of people who care more about price than anything else, but price rarely builds loyalty. If they come to you looking for the best price, you can rest assured that they will always be shopping for the best price and will probably go elsewhere if they can get it cheaper. The number one reason for lost customers in the Embroidery Industry is poor service, not higher prices. So, concentrate on top quality and excellent service first. You may not get every account, but you should be able to keep the ones you do. If you live and work by these premises you should be able to develop and maintain a profitable customer base. www.hsi.us care@hic.us 113