Finding and attracting new customers can be challenging for any business owner. However, it can be more challenging for a new business owner as you enter a marketplace that already has established competitors in place.
You need to think about what sets you apart from other professionals in your field and focus on those areas to make yourself stand out from the crowd.
Here are 8 of the most effective strategies to help you find new customers as a new business owner.
FREE Checklist: Common Business Mistakes You MUST Avoid
8 Ways to Find New Customers
Trying to find new customers requires effort. Discovering ways that work best for you, and putting in the time and effort to make it happen, is a must.
Of course, you can’t expect customers to find you without putting in some work yourself, so be persistent and stay focused on your goals. With the right strategies, you can build a successful business and enjoy long-term success.
1. Network
The first step is networking with others in your industry or profession. Join local and online groups related to your field, attend conferences and seminars, and reach out to colleagues you already know for help connecting with customers who might be interested in what you offer.
2. Market Yourself Through Relevant Social Media Platforms
Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn can be powerful tools for promoting your services or products directly to potential clients and customers.
Make sure you actively engage with your followers and update regularly to build a loyal following. You also need to be sure your customers are using these platforms, as it’s no use spending time on something that won’t help you reach the people who need your services.
3. Offer Free Trials or Discounts
Another effective strategy to find new customers is to offer free trials or discounts on your products or services.
This can help you build trust with potential clients and demonstrate the value of what you have to offer. Just be sure that these offers are limited in time or quantity. Plus, ensure that you have a system in place to collect customer information allowing you to follow up with them after the promotion.
4. Don’t Skip Business Cards
Business cards might seem old-fashioned, but they are still essential to any business professional’s toolkit.
First, ensure you have a stack of well-designed and eye-catching business cards that clearly list your name, contact information, and the services or products you provide. Then, hand them out to anyone who expresses interest in what you do and leave them on display in shared spaces like coffee shops or waiting rooms.
5. Join a Co-working Space
If you’re looking for a more formal way to network with other business professionals, consider joining a local chamber of commerce where you can meet alongside others who might share your interests and goals. This can be a great way to find new clients or customers and form valuable relationships. You never know who you can help or who can help you in the future.
6. Volunteer Your Services
Consider volunteering your services to a local charity or other organization that could use your skills and expertise.
This can help you build a reputation for yourself and put you in contact with potential customers. You may even want to offer a special discount or package of services for your volunteer clients so they can experience how valuable your work can be without a significant initial investment.
7. Invest in Paid Advertising
Advertising is an expense item on your profit and loss statement but in business, advertising is an investment, not an expense.
While it may require an investment of time and money, paid advertising can lead to a substantial return on investment and is an important part of your small business toolkit. When you develop effective ads that correspond to your business goals, you end up earning money, not spending money.
8. Be Persistent
Finally, remember that finding new customers doesn’t happen overnight and will likely require time and effort on your part. Therefore, stay persistent in your efforts, and don’t be afraid to keep trying new strategies until you find one that works for you.
Free Download: 10 Common Business Mistakes To Avoid
We all make mistakes. We wouldn’t be human if we didn’t. In the world of business, you’re going to make some minor boo-boos and some cataclysmic mistakes. It’s all part of the learning process. Although mistakes are going to happen, you can avoid common business mistakes and other pitfalls that are lurking around the corner. Download my free checklist, 10 Common Business Mistakes, and avoid the false moves and slipups that even veteran online entrepreneurs make.