Working in sales in today’s economy is no easy task. Although the job market is getting better, it’s still hard to get people to part with their money.
The good news is that with the emergence of social networking and the internet, it’s really easy to reach a large audience in a shorter period of time, for even less money. But don’t think that conventional ways of marketing and communication are ineffective, because direct mailers and promotional materials are great ways of getting your sales up. So how do you go about that?
Create email/mailing lists
A great way to get the word out for your sales and promotions is through email and direct mailers. Everyone checks their emails and mail, even their junk box. The first thing on the to-do list to make this effort productive is to create business mailing lists. The best way to do this is to use the information of existing customers and create a database.
This can be done by sending out direct mail, getting your consumers to sign up for an email list in-store by adding their information when they pay, or by adding a pop-up to your website for newcomers to join your mailing list for promotions. If you’re looking to expand your reach, there are also email lists that you can buy that are directed to your audience.
Create a rewards program
Rewards programs are becoming more popular these days because of their proven effectiveness to drum up sales. First, begin by choosing a great name — “Starbucks Rewards” and “Sephora Beauty Insider” are examples of popular loyalty programs.
Then choose a rewards incentive that rewards a variety of customer transactions, such as giving “points” for purchases which can be redeemed for discounts or free products. After that, ensure that customers have plenty of opportunities to sign up and get the ball rolling!
Hand out promotional material
Promotional materials will never go out of style. There are all sorts of merchandise, including pens, notebooks, binders, and promotional wall calendars. You can send them out by direct mail to existing customers, hand them out at events, or even hand them out on site at your retail business.
Promotional material will make your consumers always think of your product and brand when they look at or use the promotional items. This is especially true for items that get used daily, like calendars.
Customer referrals
Referrals are the best way to gain loyal customers. Word of mouth has always been the best way to get consumers to love your product and stick with you. Once one of your customers is satisfied, they will tell one or two of their friends and you’ll be able to build your brand.
The best way to obtain customer referrals is to offer an incentive to existing customers, such a bonus or coupon for their referral. Before you know it, you’ll be swimming in new customers.
Use social media
Social media is a great, modern way to drum up business. You can reach a wide audience in very little time if you’re trending on sites like Twitter. Create a great promotional video or ad and watch it trend while your customer base widens.
If you create a memorable ad, you’ll have the internet talking and you’ll trend even faster. The best way to promote on social media is to promote great prices and deals or promote a funny video and you’ll be selling out in no time.
Marketing can be hard, but promoting with the right materials, incentives and platforms is the best way to go. Create your email and mail mailing list, craft your promotion and watch your sales drive upwars. Who doesn’t love free stuff?