November 22, 2011

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Are you wondering how you’re going to increase sales? Don’t worry, you aren’t alone. Finding new customers is a fundamental challenge for every business. If you’re looking to attract new business or service new clients here are ten creative tips to help turn prospects into paying customers.

1. Give something away.

Every time we “give away” something, we get lots of additional prospects, which directly leads to new business.  In our experience, the larger the prize, the more new clients we get in return. Not only do we have a lot of fun giving away something, but we get new clients in the door — it’s a win-win.

Angela Nielsen, President and Creative Director at One Lily Creative Agency: @onelily

2. Meet people.

All of my best, and repeat, clients are people I met personally before they did business with me or they’re a referral from an existing client. Typically, people suggest that you attend Chamber of Commerce and Meetup.com events, but I’ve had great luck meeting people at non-business related events that focus on personal interests.

Kane Jamison, Owner at Hood Web Management:  @KaneJamison

3. Create a buzz.

Create buzz about your product or service and it will eventually go viral. Start with outstanding customer service. If you treat customers with the utmost respect and patience, people will learn through word-of-mouth that your company is a reputable brand to do conduct business with. Many businesses lack proper customer service and eventually, it cripples them.

Ian Aronovich, Cofounder and CEO at Government Auctions: @GovtAuctions

4. Pay it forward.

As a new business owner with a small marketing budget who does a significant amount of cold calling, I believe in building relationships by “paying it forward” on a personal level as well as business level. I get my share of hang ups on cold calls, but I’m astounded by the number of buyers with whom, after a several minute phone call with a complete strange, I develop a connection and find an opportunity to help.

It can be as simple as offering free samples for our affiliate program, sharing a media contact, suggesting a web designer or even sharing a favorite recipe.  Quite often, I’ve concluded such calls with a new business lead, a sale, and a few months down the road … possibly a new friend.

Anne Griffin, Partner at Bulgarian Pottery and Gifts: @BPottery

5. Take an interest.

Entrepreneurs have forgotten the strategies that have stood the test of time. Networking is still the best source of clients for my company. ‘m referring to networking in the sense of looking to help others grow their business and take a personal interest in their lives. What goes around comes around, right?

Rishi Patel, CEO and Founder at Monazu Creative Group: @Monazu

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