You may have just reopened your business, or are preparing to reopen your business. Here are some tips to let your customers know that you are open again.
- Ensuring your customers, yourself and staff feel safe.
Your primary concern will be for the health and safety of your customers, yourself and staff. Key things to consider are; Adopt hygiene practices, Stock up on hand sanitiser, invest in PPE for yourself and staff, implement social distancing procedures, use clear signage to help customers.
- Update your website to convey key information
If you have one, use your website to publish all the important information regarding your reopening plans. Make sure to include dates and times, and all the measures you have put in place to provide customers with a safe environment.
- Update or set up Google My Business
Google My Business is an ideal way to increase your online visibility and the only cost associated with it is some time to set it up. You can post your new opening times and extra services and use your profile to convey your safety messages.
If you do not have a Google account, or do not have Google My Business set up yet, click here for a full step-by-step guide: Step1 Create a Google Account. Step2 Create a Google My Business listing.
- Share on social media channels
Social media is the perfect platform to have a conversation with your customers, whether that be speaking to existing ones, or reaching out to new ones. A key thing to remember when using social media is maintain a consistent message across the platforms you use.
If you are looking to create a Facebook page for your business, but do not know where to start, click here. Create a Facebook Page. NB You need to have a Facebook personal account yourself to create a business page.
- Send out an email newsletter
If you have a mailing list, this is a great way of sharing information and you can also include special incentives, discount codes, and any loyalty programs that you have. Your customers will probably appreciate an update, particularly if you are sending meaningful and valuable information.
- Run promotions
Whilst you will be looking to grow your business, you also want to bring your existing customers back to your store. You could run a promotion for your loyal customers, which would not only bring in revenue but also make your customers feel special.
- Communicate a consistent message to let customers know that you are open
Communication with your customers is important so that they know you are open and are aware of what you have been doing and why they should come back to you. The situation is challenging and as a business owner, you will have to adapt and be flexible to your customers’ requirements and recognise that there could be growth opportunities. Use all the channels available to you to communicate with your customers and aim to build up a relationship with your returning customer base.