No matter the size or shape of your venture, customer loyalty is very important. The reason for this is that loyal customers buy on a more regular basis, which offers higher returns on the time, money and effort that you invest. They’re also more likely to recommend your business and the products that you sell to their friends and family. This will increase your brand exposure without any extra cost. Retaining customers can be tricky, but, with these six tips, it isn’t impossible.
- Show Past Customer Validation
Customers and prospects trust other customers much more than they do businesses themselves. Even if a customer has bought from you before, they might have doubts as to whether or not to risk doing so again. Sharing positive reviews from other customers can provide the validation that is needed and show wavering customers that there is nothing to fear from you.
- Act On Negative Feedback
Most entrepreneurs see negative feedback as the enemy. After all, it tells anyone looking at your business the things that you have done wrong. However, this feedback can actually be an asset. If you respond to and act on your errors, it shows prospective customers that you care and are willing to do better. It may also change the minds of those who have given up on your company.
- Provide Better Customer Service
When you provide poor customer service, it shows that you don’t care. This is why it’s so vital that you do the opposite. You must respond quickly to queries, provide multiple contact methods, and work on building relationships with customers. You should also be polite and respectful. This will differentiate your business from lesser ones and solidify your place in the market.
- Share Your Core Values
The strongest bonds between businesses and customers are forged from shared ideals and values. When a customer has something in common with your business, they are likely to choose yours over one that they don’t. Because of this, you must be clear about what your company stands for. Write about it on your About Us page and support any relevant causes.
- Offer Rewards For Purchases
When you give customers more than what they paid for, it provides a reason for them to return to your company. This allows further interactions which can be used to build up a relationship. With that in mind, you should consider introducing a loyalty program. This will enable customers to gain points every time they shop with you, which can later be exchanged for money off purchases.
- Go Above And Beyond
Breaking a promise to a customer is one sure-fire way to lose their trust. This means that you should avoid doing so at all costs. Before agreeing to do something for a customer, make sure that it can really be done. Ideally, you should always under promise to your customers but aim to overdeliver. This means that they’ll always be happy with the service you provide.
A business needs loyal customers to survive, and, hopefully, with the advice above, you can earn some of your own.
