The Importance of the Follow Up
Anyone who's struggled to build up their own small business can tell you that one of the most important aspects of growing your clientele is mastering the fine art of the follow up. Phone calls, mailers, letters or even simple notes can be among the very best ways to let your clients (and even potential customers) know that they are important to you- and that you took all of their concerns to heart. But knowing how, and when, to conduct your follow ups can be tricky to master.
This week, the small business experts at ReversePhoneCheck.Com (one of the hottest reverse look-up services on the web) share a few of the strategies that have worked for some of the nation's most successful companies:
"Utilize your caller ID- you're paying extra for the service every month, why not get the most out of it?" –Darien, Los Angeles, Ca
This is an excellent point. Most people see their caller ID as simply a way to know who is calling before they answer the phone. But the truth is, you can use it as a great way to build a follow up database. For example, when people call to gather information or ask questions, you can then plug their phone number into a reverse phone search website (like ReversePhoneCheck.Com). Now you've got their name and address, which you can then use to send them additional information, coupons, or even a simple thank you for their inquiry.
"Make your customers feel special. They will remember you for it" –Leila, New York, NY
Another fantastic tip, especially if you're in a service oriented industry. For example, a certain well respected wedding planner on the East Coast keeps track of her the dates when her clients get married, then, 6 months or a year later, she uses her reverse search program to find that couple's address and sends them a picture from their wedding day, along with a simple card. This kind of special attention ensures that her clients always think of her when they are asked for a referral for a wedding planner.
"Above all, learn to be flexible" –John, Chicago Ill
This is the best advice for any business owner. There will be better times, and rough times- learn to roll with it, and you'll do just fine.
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