What is the best way to create a loyal customer base, and therefore a more profitable business?
Anticipate customer needs.
Anticipating needs is the best way to let your customer know that their success is your priority. When you deliver something customers need without asking, it creates a sense of ease. It lets them know you have their best interests in mind. A proverbial “I have your back”.
The most effective way to anticipate the needs of your customers is to know them well. How else will you know what their expectations are? You have to create a relationship with them to identify what their demands are – and fulfill them before they even know what they wanted.
Sneaky. Or as I like to call it, strategic. Thoughtful even.
So how do we go about this? Here are just a few examples:
In most of my books I have a call to action. I ask readers to email me to make their commitment to improving their businesses. Developing this dialogue with readers is an act of accountability on both of our parts. Moreover, it is a big leap of faith for some and I am honored they trust me. They tell me why they are committed and I let them know I am here and interested in helping them succeed. Many divulge private details of their finances and personal lives. My responses are tailored to each email and I sometimes send a video in response to them as well. My hope is that they feel less alone in their struggles as business owners and motivated to make necessary changes they need for a successful business.
The responses from readers when they receive emails or video from me has been overwhelmingly positive. It seems that most assume their emails will go into a black hole never to be answered. Not only are they answered, but I include a ton of resources that basically equal free coaching. There is a FAQ, links to my Entrepreneurship Elevated podcast, links to find a Profit First Professional, to become a Profit First Professional, links to Clockwork resources, Pumpkin Plan resources….you get my drift. And while it could be interpreted as marketing, anyone who knows me knows I am out to help empower others and help their businesses become more profitable. These resources answer a multitude of questions and inspire business owners, giving traction where they need it to move forward toward their goals. I often get emails from readers who are pleasantly surprised – they are getting answers to questions before they even knew they had them. See? Anticipating needs!
I often request reviews of my books. Because I want to hear how great they are? No. I ask for reviews because I want that honest feedback. How the heck else will I know what to write next? How will I know what problems need solving and business solutions entrepreneurs are seeking if I don’t ask? Getting reviews enables me to focus on these key areas where business owners are trying to improve.
Do you anticipate the needs of your customers? Let me know what some of your strategies are. And if you’re not, what are you waiting for? A stronger customer relationship is waiting for you!
If you want more tips like this go to Mikemotorbike.com or Mikemichalowicz.com and click on Get the Tools for tons of tried and true resources for business help and how to run a truly profitable business. Let’s rock entrepreneurship!
