Let’s face it, unless you’re Coca-Cola or Dangote Group, not everyone is a potential customer. Running a successful business means big things, like your strategy, marketing and technology. But sometimes, we could use a bit of guidance on how to better handle the little things to make our business lives easier.
People who have never been involved in any business venture claim they’re starting “the next best thing” because it is so trendy. However, as an entrepreneur, you should be as practical as possible.
Here are a few old but proven business tips and tricks:
Consider strategic partnerships
A strategic partnership is a relationship with another company for promotion, distribution, product development, or sales. You don’t have to do everything alone because these strategic partners are already serving your target market so give you an edge in that market. For example, if you run an online grocery store, you could work on a marketing campaign with supermarkets.
Have a website
This is a no-brainer. Make sure prospective customers can find you online when they’re looking for products or solutions like yours. Also, spend a few minutes listing your company’s location, hours, photos and other business information on , , and
Join a local organization
Nothing beats the rewards of face-to-face marketing. Taking time away from the office is a great way to get new customers and generate referrals.
Newsletters almost always work
Newsletters, special discounts, free content are extremely effective methods of keeping your name in front of prospects and customers. Fortunately, you can set up and schedule a whole series of such communications using services like , or others.
A strong social media presence
If your company only posts once a month on Facebook or Twitter, you’re wasting your valuable time. You need to use social media regularly to have a chance at boosting your bottom line. Buffer can be helpful on how often to post on the social networks. The trick is to do it well without allowing it to consume too much of your time.
We recommend some basics:
- Post as much as you can.
- Tell your audience about promotions and new products, but don’t hammer them over the head with it incessantly.
- Plan posts; they shouldn’t be random.
- Your posts need to offer people value.
- To figure out what content your customers want, ask them directly.
- Spy on competitors to see what works.
So, which of these tricks would you explore? Let us know in the comments!
