You want customer loyalty in your business. You want repeat business. How about making your customers into valued friends? Showing concern and empathy for their situation. The more your able to treat your customers as friends, the more business they will want to do with you. You'll watch your profits soar.
Let's go through 10 ways you can keep your customers coming back to you, time and time again. And you will no doubt make "friends" in the process.
1. Send Birthday Cards
Do you like to be remembered on your birthday? How about doing something really easy and sending birthday cards to your customers. Could you send a little gift with it? What about a "special offer" coupon? Free tickets to an event.
Dear ,
There's something REALLY special happening this month on the 17th.
It's your Birthday!!
We wanted to be one of the first to wish you a HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
From the _______ at XYZ Company we wish you a Happy Birthday and would like to offer you this special gift we've been saving for this special occasion.
2. Make "How's thing's going" calls regularly
Section out 15 minutes a day to call your customers for no other reason then saying " Hi ______, I just called to see how things are going?"
Have you ever called your customers to do that? Watch your customers appreciate you thinking of them. It makes them feel that you do care. If you want to have more business, do this regularly.
3. Send out small bags of jelly beans or candies.
Could you include a bag of jelly beans, with a handwritten note on your next sale, with the note saying, " I thought you may like these, they are my favorites." Or a note saying "Here's something for you to enjoy" Watch their eyes light up.
4. Send unexpected gifts.
If you find an article, audiotape, or anything specific customers might be interested in,send it with a note saying " I thought you'd enjoy this. I just finished reading it and there are some interesting deas here. Also, if you educate your customers they will send you more business.
5. Send Holiday Cards.
What about sending a Holiday Card that is different then all the "others" your customers are getting? Make it UNIQUE.
6. Send Thank You notes.
Send Thank you notes for everything. Even when they pay their bills on time. What about thanking them for referring business, coming to see you. Whatever you want more of, reward. It works. Send a little note saying, "Hi _______, Thank you for paying your account so promptly"
7. Make Thank You calls
Now, you should started making Thank you calls, A variation from the letters. Saying, "Hi ________, Just wanted to say Thank you for referring Mr. Smith to XYZ Co."
8. Give your customers recognition
Can you put photo's of your customers in your business. How about a photo and a testimonial. They'll be flattered and you business will increase. People love recognition.
9.Give your customer awards
Yes, you read that right. Have customers of the month. Send them a award certificate or even plaque.
Dear _______,
Just the other day I was going through my records and I realized that you are one of the top (10,20,50,) customers.
We really appreciate your business. That's why I want to send you this "Top Customer Certificate" that is enclosed.
XYZ Company looks forward to seeing you soon.
10. Hold seminars, breakfasts, lunches.
If you want to give recognition to your customers and stay in touch, have monthly or quarterly functions for your customers. Have a speaker and an interesting topic.
Dear _______,
I would like to invite you to our "Special Customers" lunch.
It will be held at ______ on ______.
It's FREE
It's our way of saying Thank you. etc...
Friday, August 7, 2009
10 Income Streams You Can Add to Your Business (And Increase Your Bottom Line)
In a nutshell, multiple streams of income means your business has more than one way to make money. For instance, you sell products and you sell services. Those are different streams of incomes. But that's just the beginning. Below are 10 ideas of different income sources you can use to increase your business's bottom line:
1. Sell a variety of services. Or you can bundle your services into packages depending on what your typical client is looking for. But be careful about this one. Don't spread yourself too thin. You want to offer a few different services or a choice of packages but you don't want too many options because it's very difficult to market yourself effectively.
2. Sell your own products. These can be information products (books, home study courses, CDs, special reports, etc.) or they can be physical products. You can also group similar products into product lines. Then you can upsell, downsell or cross-sell products to different customers on your list.
3. Sell other people's products (or services). Here's where you become an affiliate. Basically how it works is once you're approved to be an affiliate, you get your own link. Anytime someone uses that link and buys a product, you can a percentage of the sale. That percentage can be anywhere from 10 percent (mostly for services) to more than 50 percent.
Which leads me to my next tip:
4. Put together your own affiliate program. Now you can get other people to market your products and services, and the only time you pay them is when they actually sell something! How cool is that!
5. Create a teleclass, seminar, workshop or other event. This can be a one-time deal or a series of classes. (But if you do this, make sure you record it so you can sell those later.) The nice thing about this tip is it's a good blend. You can reach groups of people at one time while at the same time providing a personal touch.
6. License one of your programs or services. This is a neat idea if it works in your business. (For instance, a coach could license tools or a program to other coaches.) I don't know much about this one, but Suzanne Falter-Barnes sells a program that can teach you how to do it.
7. Create a paid membership site. Not only will you be getting regular income each month, but you'll also building your customer base -- people who are interested in purchasing your products and services. It's much easier to sell to people who are already customers than to find new ones. Plus people like being a part of a community, and becoming a member of something is a good way to do it.
8. Start a continuity program. This is similar to a membership site where you charge a monthly fee for a product or service. Maybe you create a paid newsletter subscription or you offer monthly coaching calls or you interview successful people. Whatever it is, it's something people find valuable enough to pay you a small, but regular, monthly fee.
9. Sell ads on your web site or e-zine or whatever. This one is probably not going to make you rich, but it could turn into a nice little income stream depending on how many people are looking at your e-zine or web site.
10. Use Adsense. This is when you allow Google to place its pay-per-click ads on your web site or blog. In return, every time someone clicks on one of those ads, Google will pay you a percentage. Pretty nifty program, huh? Anyhow, I do think this is one you have to be a little careful with. Most of the time I don't think people clicking away from your web site is a good thing (especially since they'll be going to one of your competitors). But there are times when this is very appropriate. For instance, maybe you've developed a web site or blog around a hobby. Or maybe you build a web site or blog for the express reason of selling Adsense. Once it's set up, you just ca^sh the checks.
Creativity Exercise -- Find time to create multiple income streams
Probably the hardest part of creating multiple income streams is finding the time, especially when your primary business is service-based. So, now that you know how important it is, how are you going to find the time to start doing it?
Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:
* Hire a virtual assistant (VA) or bookkeeper to take care of some tasks you have no business doing anyway.
* Create systems in your business so you can complete business tasks faster and more efficiently.
* Raise your prices so you can take on fewer clients and make more money.
* Dedicate a Saturday or Sunday to working on your business. (Be careful with this one as you could very quickly end up burning yourself out.)
Get a pen and paper and do some brainstorming to see how you can find more time to start creating more income streams.
1. Sell a variety of services. Or you can bundle your services into packages depending on what your typical client is looking for. But be careful about this one. Don't spread yourself too thin. You want to offer a few different services or a choice of packages but you don't want too many options because it's very difficult to market yourself effectively.
2. Sell your own products. These can be information products (books, home study courses, CDs, special reports, etc.) or they can be physical products. You can also group similar products into product lines. Then you can upsell, downsell or cross-sell products to different customers on your list.
3. Sell other people's products (or services). Here's where you become an affiliate. Basically how it works is once you're approved to be an affiliate, you get your own link. Anytime someone uses that link and buys a product, you can a percentage of the sale. That percentage can be anywhere from 10 percent (mostly for services) to more than 50 percent.
Which leads me to my next tip:
4. Put together your own affiliate program. Now you can get other people to market your products and services, and the only time you pay them is when they actually sell something! How cool is that!
5. Create a teleclass, seminar, workshop or other event. This can be a one-time deal or a series of classes. (But if you do this, make sure you record it so you can sell those later.) The nice thing about this tip is it's a good blend. You can reach groups of people at one time while at the same time providing a personal touch.
6. License one of your programs or services. This is a neat idea if it works in your business. (For instance, a coach could license tools or a program to other coaches.) I don't know much about this one, but Suzanne Falter-Barnes sells a program that can teach you how to do it.
7. Create a paid membership site. Not only will you be getting regular income each month, but you'll also building your customer base -- people who are interested in purchasing your products and services. It's much easier to sell to people who are already customers than to find new ones. Plus people like being a part of a community, and becoming a member of something is a good way to do it.
8. Start a continuity program. This is similar to a membership site where you charge a monthly fee for a product or service. Maybe you create a paid newsletter subscription or you offer monthly coaching calls or you interview successful people. Whatever it is, it's something people find valuable enough to pay you a small, but regular, monthly fee.
9. Sell ads on your web site or e-zine or whatever. This one is probably not going to make you rich, but it could turn into a nice little income stream depending on how many people are looking at your e-zine or web site.
10. Use Adsense. This is when you allow Google to place its pay-per-click ads on your web site or blog. In return, every time someone clicks on one of those ads, Google will pay you a percentage. Pretty nifty program, huh? Anyhow, I do think this is one you have to be a little careful with. Most of the time I don't think people clicking away from your web site is a good thing (especially since they'll be going to one of your competitors). But there are times when this is very appropriate. For instance, maybe you've developed a web site or blog around a hobby. Or maybe you build a web site or blog for the express reason of selling Adsense. Once it's set up, you just ca^sh the checks.
Creativity Exercise -- Find time to create multiple income streams
Probably the hardest part of creating multiple income streams is finding the time, especially when your primary business is service-based. So, now that you know how important it is, how are you going to find the time to start doing it?
Here are a few ideas to get you thinking:
* Hire a virtual assistant (VA) or bookkeeper to take care of some tasks you have no business doing anyway.
* Create systems in your business so you can complete business tasks faster and more efficiently.
* Raise your prices so you can take on fewer clients and make more money.
* Dedicate a Saturday or Sunday to working on your business. (Be careful with this one as you could very quickly end up burning yourself out.)
Get a pen and paper and do some brainstorming to see how you can find more time to start creating more income streams.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
3 Key Secret Components For Wholesale Profit Success
Everyday it is getting more attractive to start selling wholesale items online and offline because of the profit potential many products carry. Now a days if you plan to make a part-time income or make a full-time living by selling wholesale items, you need to know three basic components that almost every seller online and offline do not use to their advantage.
In order to have success within the wholesale business you need to follow the three steps key components 98% average Joe marketer does not apply and fails to recognize as vital important factors for company short-term and long-term success as competition is getting heavier every day, such key steps are:
Key Component Number 1: Research. Product and market research both online and offline is a must for the initial start-up success of a potential profitable wholesale business.
You need to discover what wholesale items are profitable, which items are viable and saturated, item acceptance-nationally or worldwide, market population, item conversion rate, return on investment and competition research to name a few.
Know how to make this research before deciding to sell a product and more importantly, a wholesale item. Since when we sell wholesale, profits are less since we sell to merchants, retailers or clients and therefore need more research time to enjoy possible future profits.
Key Component Number 2: Test. Most successful businesses test their product and system before even starting to sell the main item both online or offline.
One of the tools you can use for your immediate advantage is the use of surveys. By using and completing a survey to a potential customer, you obtain valuable rapport on customer likes and dislikes about your idea, product or business concept. Use this free survey resource to your advantage before selling for immediate feedback.
Key Component Number 3: Take Action. Start offering the wholesale item for a fee and gather final conclusions if your item will or will not sell. By doing the proper research, testing and getting into an action process mode, you will win or lose money. No matter what happens in your sales experience with your new item, you earn profits or you gain considerable knowledge and experience.
Very importantly, you must take action with your new idea or recurring wholesale business venture as doing so will increase your experience and potential profit success within your niche and industry.
In order to have success within the wholesale business you need to follow the three steps key components 98% average Joe marketer does not apply and fails to recognize as vital important factors for company short-term and long-term success as competition is getting heavier every day, such key steps are:
Key Component Number 1: Research. Product and market research both online and offline is a must for the initial start-up success of a potential profitable wholesale business.
You need to discover what wholesale items are profitable, which items are viable and saturated, item acceptance-nationally or worldwide, market population, item conversion rate, return on investment and competition research to name a few.
Know how to make this research before deciding to sell a product and more importantly, a wholesale item. Since when we sell wholesale, profits are less since we sell to merchants, retailers or clients and therefore need more research time to enjoy possible future profits.
Key Component Number 2: Test. Most successful businesses test their product and system before even starting to sell the main item both online or offline.
One of the tools you can use for your immediate advantage is the use of surveys. By using and completing a survey to a potential customer, you obtain valuable rapport on customer likes and dislikes about your idea, product or business concept. Use this free survey resource to your advantage before selling for immediate feedback.
Key Component Number 3: Take Action. Start offering the wholesale item for a fee and gather final conclusions if your item will or will not sell. By doing the proper research, testing and getting into an action process mode, you will win or lose money. No matter what happens in your sales experience with your new item, you earn profits or you gain considerable knowledge and experience.
Very importantly, you must take action with your new idea or recurring wholesale business venture as doing so will increase your experience and potential profit success within your niche and industry.
Home Business Solution
If you stay at home and want to earn an income for yourself or your family, there’s never been a better time than now. With so many opportunities online, you can easily start your own home business with a computer, Internet connection, desk and chair! Whether you want to start a part-time or full-time home business, here are some excellent home business solutions to consider.
1. Make Money Online by Offering Web-related Services
If you’re skilled in Web design, graphic design, Internet marketing, or other Web-related services, you can make money online by offering these services to others. There are many homemakers and business people just like you who are getting online to start a business. They’ll need their own website, hosting, domain name, company Web logo, and Internet marketing services.
If you can provide these services, you’ll have a terrific opportunity for residual income. Many of these services are paid monthly or yearly, so the potential for success is amazing.
2. Educate Others and Work from Home
If you have special skills and love to teach, there’s good news. You no longer have to apply for a teaching job at a school or university. You can now start your own training website and teach others from the comfort of your own home. The Internet is flooded daily with people who want to increase their knowledge and skills. Many moms and dads are now offering classes, selling e-books, and providing instructional websites all while staying home with the kids. It’s a great way to make money online without paying high daycare bills!
There are also unique home business solutions online where you can sign up with a company that provides training to students for you. You can potentially earn a huge residual income by promoting their educational services.
3. Join an MLM Opportunity
MLM has grown tremendously in recent years thanks to online technology. More and more people are making money online with MLM because it’s so much easier to communicate using online resources such as email, websites, and instant messaging.
If you decide to join an MLM company, be sure the company is trustworthy. Investigate before you sign on, or find a company that will investigate for you. A good place to start is a dependable MLM directory. These companies will investigate many different home business solutions and list only those that are legitimate and that offer the most profit potential.
4. Niche Home Business Solutions
Many homemakers are earning a substantial income by offering niche products or services. For example, the mother who loves to sew baby clothing decides to sell her items through her own website or through consignment websites. Or, a father who loves to do handiwork around the house starts a “handyman” e-zine and sells related products and tools. A young college student discovers the secrets to college life and starts his or her own “college life” newsletter.
The possibilities are endless. Other niche home business ideas include baking, hunting, fishing, musical instruction, handmade crafts, handmade furniture, parenting, pets, weddings, gardening, and sports.
5. Investments
If you like to take your chances in the stock market, investing is easier than ever on the Internet. Many homemakers make money online by investing in Forex, the popular and lucrative currency exchange market. Some earn money with traditional stocks. If this is your passion, you can now do it from home with minimal effort.
Please be careful, as there are many scams with companies trying to get you to invest in fake stocks. Check out every opportunity carefully, and keep your funds safe by dealing only with reputable, well-known stock companies and brokers.
No matter which home business solution you choose, use online directories and the testimonies of other online business owners to help you find the opportunities that will fit your schedule and budget.
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