Using Proven Strategies to Increase Sales
As a small business owner, it can be challenging to get new customers and increase sales. This is especially true in today’s climate, with the ongoing economic struggles post pandemic, and the cost of living crisis affecting many people’s spending habits, there’s less spending power in people’s pockets and therefore, less to spend on services like yours.
However, with the right strategies and tactics, it is possible to grow your business and attract new customers, even in these difficult times. Here are a few ideas for how a business can increase their sales online through the use of relatively simple to implement, proven strategies that increase sales:
Enhance your online visibility – get found
Enhance your online presence by building a website and establishing social media profiles like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and wherever else you’re likely to have a receptive audience that you can connect and engage with. This will make it easier for customers to locate and learn about your business, and it will also give you a platform to share updates, promotions, and customer feedback
Use SEO to optimise your content for keywords important to your business
People still use search engines to find services they need – Utilise search engine optimisation (SEO) to increase your website’s ranking in search results. Be sure to create content that is relevant, conduct keyword research and use data to inform how your content will sit, and who it will appeal to. This will help more potential new customers find your business, when they search for relevant keywords
Offer Online Ordering
We live in an age of convenience – Offer people the ability to order online and where apt, delivery options to your customers. This will make it convenient for them to purchase from you, and it will also allow you to reach a wider audience by delivering to customers who may not be able to utilise your service or products in person
Create and Share
Create and share captivating content on your website and social media channels. This can include blog posts, videos, and photos that showcase your services and products, as well as provide value to your audience, through demonstrating your expertise and experience
Offer Discounts and Promotions
Run promotions and discounts to encourage customers to shop with you. These can be promoted through a mix of email marketing, social media, and on your website. Offer discount codes, and incentivise people to use you, over a competitor
Use Loyalty Programs to Encourage Repeat Business
Consider implementing a loyalty program to reward your repeat customers. This can help encourage repeat business and customer loyalty, and generate word of mouth as people share how you offer value for money
Paid Online Ad Programs
Use paid advertising to reach a wider audience. This can include Google Ads, social media ads, and other targeted advertising options. Be sure to set up your campaigns in ways that maximise conversions through local targeting of audiences
Use Customer Reviews and Ratings
Leverage customer reviews and ratings to build trust and credibility with potential customers. Encourage customers to leave reviews on your website and social media channels; especially your Google business and Facebook profiles, and consider featuring these reviews prominently on your website as testimonials
Provide Fabulous Customer Service
Aim to provide exceptional customer service to help build a positive reputation for your business. This can include responding promptly to customer enquiries, resolving any issues that may arise, and going above and beyond to meet customer needs and concerns
Connect with other businesses in your sector
Partner with other businesses to cross-promote each other’s products or services. This can be a mutually beneficial arrangement that helps both businesses reach a wider audience and drive sales. An example might be a plumber, talking about an electricians services or visa-versa
Monitor Rinse and Repeat
Be sure to record and monitor where your sales are coming from; use analytics programs to measure who comes to your website and from where. Track enquires that convert to sales, and look for the common themes that exist. If repeating the effort spent writing a thought leadership piece on blog or forum x, then do it again. Use tracking urls with query string parameters; eg ?source=webaddress&campaign=campaign name.
Wrapping up…
Whilst there may not be any shortcuts, the reality is that by implementing some or all of these aspects, you can increase your sales and grow your business; even in the most challenging of times.
Remember to stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances, and don’t be afraid to try new things and see what works best for your business. With a little creativity and effort, you can attract new customers and continue to thrive in your marketplace.
If you’d like any help, then please feel free to book a consultation
Photo by Myriam Jessier