Who doesn’t want more sales?
Digital and social media marketing in one form or another is a necessity in today’s business world. It provides a perfect way to create strong relationships with your current and potential customers. Used correctly, you can get your great news out faster and give a product release a human touch. If you’re wondering how to step up your marketing game, I have seven ways to turn your followers and fans into potential sales.
1. Create a Likeable Persona: People can see right through fake or pushy people – even online – so be the voice of someone that YOU would want to buy from. Authenticity is essential; this is your chance to humanize your brand and create relationships.
2. Don’t Forget Existing Customers: Offer extended customer service through social media. Keeping loyal clients happy is key. They will refer others to your business, and it is A LOT less expensive to keep current clients than to find new ones. Also, remember that referral rewards are an option.
3. Connect with People whose Profiles Match Those of Your Clients: If you are looking to reach out more to potential clients, focus on people who have a need for what you are selling. Look for people using hashtags that relate to your business. Add value to their network by contributing to their conversations through comments or re-tweets; the relationship will come naturally. Always listen! You need to understand their needs before you attempt a sale.
4. Conversation is Key: Whether this is a long-time client or not, engaging through conversation is most important for establishing relationships. Instead of just responding with “thanks for the comment,” ask a question about their experience and how they want future experiences with your business to be. Remember to be timely; people have a short attention span on social media, so respond ASAP.
5. Offer Exclusives: Whether it’s a coupon code, or an exclusive offer for being a customer, give your customers a reason to spend more. Don’t forget to showcase other products they may like from your business.
6. Provide Valuable Content: The 80/20 rule does exist! Only talk about your company 20% of the time; other posts should be useful or entertaining information clients would appreciate. It is important to showcase deals or sales specials, but do not overdo it. Promotions on social media provide little engagement; building relationships should be the priority.
7. Cross Channel Integration: Social media cannot replace email or other marketing tools, so linking them together for follow-up is a good plan. People like options, so make it easy to find the many ways to connect with your business.