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5 Retail Marketing Tips – On a Dime

A dime doesn’t buy much these days… but marketing on a dime can. Here are 5 simple tips to help you market your business on a dime – literally.

1. Encourage Four Square, Facebook & Other Social Media Check Ins

Friends of those who “check-in” via social media see where they are checked in. If it’s your business, then you are gaining awareness – plain and simple. Plus, the appeal of “check-ins” is that customers are actually happy to be at your business. This translates well to those who view their check-ins, and likewise, will leave impressions with this audience as your business being a great place to be.

2. Embrace Mobile Experiences

80% of Smartphone users will reference their phone while shopping in a store. 4 out of 5 users shop on their phones. Embrace this from both sides = online and in stores. The real kicker? 40% of shoppers will leave a site if it does not have an easy mobile experience. Here’s the black and white for you, though…. Don’t fight a trend you can’t beat. Use mobile apps designed for indies to help support your store sales and bring awareness to your stores. Some of RM’s fav include Walk.by and Recipreo – both of which encourage in-store mobile conversations and ultimately, sales.

3. Build Brand Equity Through Press 

Customers love shopping where they think there is a “buzz”. Beyond being new, celebrating an anniversary or offering a stellar deal, create stories to pitch to the press to generate store awareness. Remember… press is free. Advertising is not. It’s simply finding the time to reach out to the media and having newsworthy stories to share that will support your goal of gaining press – while also attracting new customers and reminding regulars just how great your store is.

4. Be The “Fun” Store

Being the “fun” store in town doesn’t mean chatting too much, sitting too often or not working hard. Instead, it’s the impression customers – or their short little sidekicks (aka kids) – give you a reputation of. Offer a cup of coffee/cider/lemonade, have a staple candy always out, create a kids craft corner that is worth going to, get to know everyone’s name and actually care to. Be friendly and mean it. You get the idea. While these little details may seem just that – little – they are actually memorable bits and pieces of your business that get customers chatting, remembering and caring.

5. Promote Via Your Email Signature

Not everyone email you send is about work – but they can be. Use your email signature to identify business details, store location, special announcements and more. Essentially, brag. But in the good, non-conceited, professional way. An extra tip? If self-promotion isn’t your thing, remember to always write in the third person when discussing your business.

Finally – don’t give up. Marketing is a constant must for any business – small or large. Whether it’s word of mouth marketing or the kind that comes with sweat work, be sure your store isn’t left in the dust when it comes to gaining customer awareness.


Comments

  • Retail Consultant
    March 15, 2013

    It is very informative blog.All tips are very helpful for promote business.Thanks for sharing this with us.

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