Do you dream of generating more leads for your business than you can handle?
When you start a business it is important to understand how to generate leads in order to establish a strong customer base. Most businesses fail because they can find a way to profitably generate leads. Don’t let that happen to your business.
Below we will look at some tactics that work. If you use them consistently you will see your customer list and your sales grow.
1. Create a list.
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Develop your own contact list by getting information from your existing customers, people who visit your website, and networking contacts. You can also use LinkedIn as a tool to create a list of prospects.
2. Ask for referrals.
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Turn to your satisfied customers for help. Ask them for names of people who might use your services. Or, ask them to reach out to their own contacts and give them your name. Another tactic is to look to your existing network of family, friends, or former coworkers. Make sure that they know about your new business and encourage them to spread the word about it.
3. Use email to your advantage.
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Email is a powerful and one of the most cost-effective marketing tool. You can get a great return on your investment if you put in just a little time and effort. Try including social media like buttons and forward to a friend links in all emails you send out. Or, you can try co-marketing with another business. Use each other’s mailing lists to promote giveaways and spread information.
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4. Have a contest.
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Use a contest or giveaway to create new leads. Everyone likes to have a chance to win a prize. Make the prize desirable and people will be willing to mention it to their friends. Set up a system to later reconnect with the contestants and further promote your products. It is still important to focus on people who are your potential customers.
5. Guest blog.
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Make sure that you have clear objectives and good content when you guest blog. Also be sure to blog in places where your time and effort will be rewarded. If you follow those guidelines you should see an increase in leads.
6. Get personal.
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Attending in-person events is a good way to branch out. Don’t underestimate the power of meeting people face-to-face. When you do attend these events be sure to socialize and network. If you can’t find events to attend, host your own.
7. Change your tools.
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Understand that whatever methods you are using now to generate leads are not the only methods out there. Try using other channels or forums. Some good options might be hosting or contributing to a webinar or podcast. Don’t be afraid to try new things.
8. Take advantage of holidays.
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Use upcoming holidays as a tie-in. You don’t have to limit yourself to just Thanksgiving and Christmas, either. Take advantage of holiday promotions and seasons. A great example is “Back to School” sales that most retailers have.
9. Borrow ideas from other industries.
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There is no rule that says you have to use the usual lead-gen tactics employed by your industry. Try some different techniques. If you always do digital marketing, for example, try direct mail instead. You could even borrow from real estate agents and hold an “Open House” where you invite potential customers to a meet and greet at your place of business.
10. Use publicity.
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When you start a business, good publicity should be used to your advantage. Consider using press releases, PR, and other methods to promote your business. Even if your business story isn’t headline news that doesn’t mean it isn’t newsworthy.
So, now that you have some ideas for lead generation, take a few minutes to think about your ideal customer. What websites do they visit, magazines do they read, or trade shows do they attend? Use that knowledge to put the above techniques to work for you.
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photo credit: Current Mag – Mighty Good Coffee 6