Let’s face it, to grow a successful business we need to be able to sell our product or service. So we need to get prospecting, to find prospects who we can turn into our customers. We need to be doing this all the time if we’re to avoid the feast or famine rollercoaster that the journey of business will otherwise be.
But the very thought of prospecting can send some people running for the hills.
Why this aversion to prospecting?
We instinctively know that people don’t like change because we don’t like it either.
Prospecting might mean interrupting people who don’t like change to suggest that they might want to change by using our product or service. The risk is that they won’t be receptive to change which will mean we’ll feel rejected.
Or we see what other people are doing in the way of prospecting on social media for example and we see it looks boring or pushy and we know it doesn’t work.
Successful people in business, though, know that prospecting is all about building relationships and standing out from the crowd.
Successful people are confident about the quality of their product or service and know it’s not a personal attack on them when someone turns them down. They are persistent and resilient and celebrate the “Nos”, knowing that they’re closer to the inevitable “Yes!”.
Successful people are courageous. They don’t want to do what everyone else is doing. They know how important it is to stand out from the crowd. They want to get creative and have fun.
Here are 15 creative ideas for you to prospect for new customers.
- Existing customers
Contact all your past and existing customers to be sure they know every product or service you offer. It’s 5 or 6 times easier and cheaper to get existing customers to buy from you because they know you already – but they might not be aware of everything you have to offer.
- Get creative and stand out from the crowd
When everyone else is using emails that no one reads, send something useful through the old-fashioned post.
- ALWAYS follow up on your initial contact
It can take 7 touches before someone’s prepared to take notice of you. Follow up!
- Give great service every time
This way your customers do the prospecting for you. When they’re your raving fans they’ll tell everyone about you whether that’s by way of Google reviews or just telling their friends and family.
- Host Unique Events
Organise exclusive events or workshops related to your industry. Host webinars or virtual conferences with valuable content.
6. Interactive Content
Create interactive quizzes, surveys, or assessments related to your products or services. Develop a gamified experience for potential clients – make it fun!
7. Surprise Gifts or Samples
Send personalised surprise gifts or product samples to potential clients. Use creative packaging to make the delivery memorable.
- Video Outreach
Record personalised video messages for potential clients. Create engaging and informative video content showcasing your products/services.
- Partnerships and Collaborations
Collaborate with complementary businesses for joint promotions. Offer exclusive discounts or bundles through partnerships.
- Innovative Direct Mail Campaigns
Send unique and creative direct mail packages. Use unconventional materials or formats to grab attention.
- Social Media Challenges
Create a branded challenge on social media platforms. Encourage participants to share their experiences and engage with your brand.
- Customer Success Stories
Showcase success stories from your existing clients. Create case study videos or testimonials that highlight the benefits of your products/services.
- Personalised Content
Tailor your outreach messages to each prospect individually. Reference specific aspects of their business to demonstrate your understanding.
- Community Engagement
Get involved in local community events or sponsor local initiatives. Attend networking events and build relationships with other businesses.
- Loyalty Programmes for Prospects
Create a loyalty programme specifically for potential clients. Offer exclusive perks or discounts for those considering your products/services.
Finally
Remember, it’s important to be genuine in your prospecting approach. But if you can stand out from the crowd in today’s hectic business landscape, you’re more likely to get noticed.
Be sure to tailor your strategies to your target audience and industry every time to ensure the best results.
Interested to learn more tips on how to grow your business in just 6 months while sustaining your work/life balance? Get in touch for a chat today!
