It is 135 years since the telephone was invented yet most businesses largely depend on it. This bad habit is a business-killer. The horse and cart was replaced by the delivery van; the town crier is history but mysteriously the ancient telephone, companion to the telegram, semaphore signals and Morse code, is still in vogue.
Most customers use e-mails so here are a few tips to make yours work for your business. For a start make sure your advertisements, signage and promotional literature include your e-mail address prominently displayed.
With E-Mail
You know where your business is but can your clients find it? By e-mail you can give precise directions; even attach a map to make their trip easier. They will appreciate the thought.
E-mails can detail the services and prices you offer; if you own a restaurant menus can be e-mailed. Pre-ordered meals make life easier for kitchen staff whilst reducing your buying costs. Whatever your service you can e-mail details; price lists and special offers.
Invite customers to leave their e-mail addresses. That way you can inform them of special offers; price reductions; entertainment engagements, holidays, opening and closing times.
We have all heard the expression; people don’t buy products they buy people. It is true. Pictures of your premises, staff; interior, can be sent to clients. This helps them to bond with your business. Think of customers as partners in your business and its success for this is what they are.
If you hold events or moving address, taking on a new manager, booking an entertainer, the e-mail can be used to inform your customers.
The e-mail message offers opportunity for you to place a ‘signature’; a permanent sales message on every e-memo you send.
Invite customers to comment on your services. These can later be included in e-mails to reassure new clients. They are good for inviting suggestions too. Imagine, a free mystery shopping opportunity to give your business the vital edge over competitors.
You have some good news? Tell your customers; promotions, awards, and important key selling points that identify your business as being perfect for their needs.
If a member of a trade association its logo and details can be permanently included in your e-mails too.
If appropriate places of local interest can be included. You can also invite visitors to browse complementary businesses whose owners will be happy to link with your website.
When the phone rings you are obliged to answer it even if it is inconvenient for you to do so. Similarly you might get your timing wrong when calling clients. Unlike the telephone call e-mails can be sent and replied to at your convenience - and your customers.
Unlike the telephone e-mail doesn’t cost anything to use; it avoids the costly inconvenience of postal deliveries (snail mail) . E-mail can effortlessly handle bulk information without bumping up the cost of sending it.©
Mike Walsh is a professional copywriter. He will advise and if required give you website and business brochures a professional makeover. Sloppy content and poor spelling deters clients.