COVID-19 caused many small businesses to take a turn for the worse. Instead of having a banner year as projected, at best, they broke even. With several vaccines currently accessible to the population, businesses are remaining positive that a return to normal is nearing.
Now, they can finally take steps to start growing their businesses again. If you are trying to do that, there are some simple things you can do.
Leads, Leads, and More Leads
Many small businesses stick with the tried and proven method of finding leads. However, not all leads are worth the investment. Make sure you are using reputable companies that give you access to contractors who need your services. Using Networx leads you can send emails or place calls to increase your bottom line.
Brand Awareness
While name recognition is something you earn over time, you can improve brand awareness by having your business name appear often. Social media provides a platform that fits the bill. Your ad pops up at times of your choosing to reach your targeted audience. For a nominal fee any small business can improve its standing.
Loyal Customers
You have customers who remain loyal. When they need the services or products you offer they will contact you. However, don’t take them for granted. Existing customers need reassurance that you are there for them personally and not just future sales. Sending periodic emails that give them advance notice on new offerings, ahead of a release to the public or discounts on their next order are a few ways to establish loyalty.
Quality
A fantastic way to stand out among the competition is to provide only quality service. In a world with many businesses offering much of the same, quality matters. Make sure that your employees understand the company policy. That they apply the same quality of work whether it’s a small or large job. Word of mouth gets around quickly. One critical review and your small business takes a few steps backward.
Outsourcing
As a small business owner, you are in charge of everything. Unfortunately, with too many things on your mind or items to complete, you don’t have enough hours to dedicate to marketing. One way to free up valuable time is to outsource things like doing quarterly taxes, payroll, tech support and inventory.
Know Your Competition
If you want to gain an edge over your competitors, you need to know not only the services they provide but also how they run their business. Learning how other companies operate will give you valuable insight that can help you reach gold status.
Revamp Your Website
It’s not enough to send potential customers to your website. When they reach it you want to keep them interested. That is where checking the websites of the competition can increase earnings. Using whiteboard video to describe how to use products or to present the services you offer, are a few examples. Pop-up chatbots can also prove beneficial in helping customers navigate through the website with ease and adding a place for customers to write reviews.
Create Short-Term and Long-Term Achievable Goals
Ahead of the new year, it’s important to list both short-term and long-term goals for the company. Check your available funds and if necessary, secure a loan to cover future business expenses. Hold monthly meetings to make sure your entire staff is on the same page. Including employees encourages them to put their best efforts in motion. Make sure that your goals are realistic to avoid a lack of enthusiasm in the future.
The past year took many small businesses by surprise. After a prior year with much success, many barely survived. With a new year and the pandemic winding down, you can gain ground and bring your small business back better than ever.