Isn’t it great when customers just come into your business, all ready to buy? That does happen sometimes, but most of the time, you have to get out there and do some marketing to attract their attention. Even when a prospect does show some interest in your business, it still doesn’t mean they are ready to buy. At this point, it is just a sales lead. Now you have the even harder job of nurturing that lead to become a customer.
Lead nurturing means that you keep in touch with prospects, provide a steady stream of information, and gently bring them along the sales path to buying from you. Email is perfect for this process, and that’s why it is so important that you gather email addresses at every possible opportunity. Once you have those email addresses, here are seven email marketing strategies your small business can use to help boost its sales:
1. Say Hello: If somebody goes through the effort of giving you their email address, the first thing you need to do is acknowledge that action. Send a quick email to say hello and invite the prospect to visit your website.
2. Products and Services: There is no way that a brand new prospect is going to know everything about your products or services. Devise a series of emails that you can send out on a regular basis that provide information on product features and benefits.
3. Education: It can’t be all about you and heavy-handed selling. Sometimes you have to make it about the prospect. Provide information that is helpful and educational to demonstrate that your business is willing to go above and beyond. You can share articles, provide demonstrations, or offer white papers that are geared around your product.
4. Special Offers: Make it worthwhile for them to keep looking for your messages by including a special, email only, offer every so often. This proves that you are willing to work for the sale.
5. Keep in Touch: Most prospects don’t buy right away, and most marketers stop sending them information after one or two attempts. But some people need to hear from you five to seven times, or need to be reminded about your business when they are in a buying mood. Keep in touch so you’re top of mind.
6. Sell More: You know that customers who purchase product “A” from your company often come back and purchase product “B” as well. Make it easy for somebody who already has a relationship with your business to take the next step.
7. Come Back: If you notice that somebody hasn’t purchased from your business in some time you can send out an email encouraging them to come back and give you another chance.
You don’t have to create new emails every time you need to communicate with somebody. Write emails in advance for topics you want to touch on, and send out information as the occasion arises.