The Giftbasket Concierge

Here are 3 questions every business owner should ask when cultivating and retaining customers for future business:

1. How do you currently get new customers in your business?  Are you using local ads, social media, networking functions or setting up convention displays?  Are you cold calling - in person? 

• You should have a set plan.  Marketing regularly helps to not only help people remember you, it brands your company.  A routine of email or mailing campaign throughout the year is the best form to streamline your message and what your business has to offer.  If you wait until the holidays or your business type's busy season, it's too late.  You will get lost in the shuffle. 

2. What is your current mix of consumers v.s. corporate clients?

• Ever hear the term "Don't put your eggs in one basket?"?  Well, that stands true of your client base.  If you only go after one type of customer, you are only reaching a small percentage of the population.  Big firms may have a need for your expertise.  Solicite them!  Remember that corporate clients are made up of the regular population.  Reaching out to a big firm may provide a trickle down effect to the staff....in short....more $$ if someone in that group needs your product or service.  Don't be afraid to go after the big fish.  It may be the faster way to get new sales whether it's by a new firm or the individuals who run it!

3.  What do you think is the missing piece of information you need to enable you to get and keep clients?

• Everyone benefits from change and improving their business model.  Change allows us to remove what has not worked in the past and move on to something new.  It may take time, but any adjustments in how you market or do business must take root in order for people to recognize that they need your product or service.  The change can be as subtle as how you answer your phone or address your clients.  For example, did you ever notice when you visit a local Chick-Fil-A restaurant that each associate responds to a 'thank you" by saying "My Pleasure"?  It is a respectful response that is different and unique from almost anywhere else.  Take a long look at your business and marketing efforts and give them an overhaul every 6-9 months.  Once you find the right mix, run with it.  You will reap the benefits!

Thank you for following our posts at The Giftbasket Concierge.  Please visit our website at www.thegiftbasketconcierge.com or call us at 1-877-259-GIFT (4438).

How Do You Maintain Client Retention?

During the Christmas season, many businesses focus on marketing through customer appreciation by providing tokens of appreciation to their clients. But what happens when Christmas is over? Those clients who are inundated with Christmas messages and gifts often don't hear from the businesses they patronize the rest of the year.

Customer Appreciation Should Be Ongoing
In the past, marketing always included keeping up with the customer after a sale or service. Now, many customers feel abandoned once the business transaction is complete. As a business owner, you rely on these individuals to keep you going year after year so it is essential to be proactive.

How Can My Business Say Thanks?
Saying thank you can be simple: a phone call or handwritten note letting clients know they are appreciated. These are simple but powerful tools that show people you are thinking about them and want to stay in contact. When staying in contact, keep in mind that while e-mail has its place in business, when it comes to building and maintaining customer relationships, a more personal touch is necessary.
What about that client that stays with you year after year, who keeps coming back regardless of the economic climate? This person deserves something special.
The Gift Basket Concierge has a variety of options to help your business show loyal customers how much they are appreciated. The Thanks A Million basket line is a great place to start. Here you will find a selection of fine foods, sweet treats, wines, and the ability to build baskets on a budget.

When Should My Business Use Gift Baskets?
Gift baskets are the right choice for a number of events for your business throughout the year. Often, they are used as a display of appreciation after a major purchase but this isn't the only time to use them.
If you want to celebrate the anniversary of your business, send out a basket to loyal customers to mark the occasion. To really impress your clients, celebrate their own anniversary with your business. Taking the time to acknowledge and remind people of how they use your business is a great way to boost customer relationships.
However you choose do it, take the time to say thanks. In this fast-paced world, people appreciate those who take time to remember them. And, chances are, next time they're ready to make a purchase, they will remember you.

First Time Blogger!

Wow...unchartered territory!  Hello everyone.  The is The Giftbasket Concierge (aka Giftbasket Guru) and I am venturing out on this blogging endeavor out of curiosity and to also share some business and personal experiences.  Please follow me while I navigate through this new adventure and let me know if I need some advice or let me know I am on the right track.  Thanks for reading....