You can still have a thriving business in these hard pressed, economic times. Follow these suggestions to keep the money coming in and the customers coming back.

Think you can increase the business you lost in 08? Yes! Anyone can make their business recession proof during these hard times. It just requires a lot of thoughtfulness , creativity and sensitivity. You’ll be able to increase your customer business this year by following these very simple hints and tips!

  1. Rely on established customers. Reward those who have chosen you in the past. Set up a frequent buyer program where loyal clients can be rewarded. Many fast food and coffee shops have this. Reward buyers with a discount or a free item if they are repeat customers or buy a lot of your product or services..
  2. Set up brotherhood business at related industries. For example landscapers ca n give out coupons for maid services and vice versa. Local clothing stores can offer coupons for cleaners. Doing this also gives you a chance to establish strong bonds in the community.
  3. Open houses. Set out a table of coffee and cookies (or doughnuts) and invite the community. Open houses have historically done well for showrooms and universities. They bring in people who even just have a glimmer of curiosity. An open house is also a great way of showcasing your best products and sales reps.
  4. Coupons. Don’t laugh at those hokey coupon packs that come in the mail. A lot of consumers right now are using them for everything from buying new windows to getting hair cuts. This is a good boost for new storeowners because it introduces you to the area.
  5. Community service. Give back to the town either by sponsoring a team or sponsoring an event. Get yourself and your workers involved in charity events. Most consumers usually gravitate towards companies that do good deeds and will buy from them before using their competition.
  6. Samples. If you have a product, then give it out. You can do handouts in malls, or via the mail (depending on what you have). It’s a great way of introducing yourself and what you sell to the public.
  7. Demographics. Send out surveys to customers to find out who’s using your product or services. From these you can cull vital info about age groups, areas and tastes. You can then tailor your business to suit these to make the most money. You can also increase your revenues by selling this info to related industries as well.

Even thought the times are tough, it is easy to turn your business into a money making machine. It takes a little more effort and maybe even a little more money but the end result will be well worth it.