Growing your business can be an exciting and challenging time, as you work towards the goal of higher revenue, increased profits, and booming sales. However, after the initial spurt of growth, some businesses might see their upwards trajectory begin to stagnate.
So, what can you do to restimulate business growth once it has plateaued? Let us explore some simple yet effective techniques.
- Take the time to really understand your customer
In order to kickstart growth, it is essential to really understand what your customer wants. Identify your target market and directly focus your sales and marketing strategy towards them, setting you apart from your competitors.
One way you can do this is by enlisting the help of business growth advisor services. An expert advisor can assist you in reviewing what currently works well, what doesn’t, and how you might improve your strategies with the goal of growing your business.
- Think about the customer journey
Otherwise referred to as a ‘sales funnel’, the customer journey through a website should funnel the customer towards a sale or signing up to your services. The same applies for customers who enter your business – they should begin their journey through the funnel as soon as they walk through the doors.
- Utilise social media
In the modern era, there may be no weapon in your arsenal more powerful than social media. Engage with your customers by regularly posting eye-catching and interesting content.
Whether you let people know more about your brand, focus on customer service, or even post humorous memes, the creative direction you take on this should be tailored towards your target audience.
- Improve customer retention
You may have heard the general rule of thumb that it costs five times as much money to attract a new customer than it does to retain a current customer. Although this exact figure has been debated in recent years, the broad sentiment of it still applies.
Cultivating customer loyalty by improved customer retention methods such as customer service, loyalty rewards programs, and a focus on building relationships with your customers can improve sales, kickstarting growth.
- Try networking with other businesses
To grow your business, you need to make sure your brand is visible to both potential customers and other businesses. Start by attending networking events designed for likeminded entrepreneurs in your local area.
As you build relationships with other businesses in the area, you will be able to spread the word about what your company is all about. Why not ask your new networking buddies if you can advertise in their premises, or come up with a deal whereby you both recommend one another to your customers?
- Emphasise CSR
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is essential for all modern businesses. CSR shows that you are aware of how your business impacts your community, the public, and the overall environment.
Practising CSR emphasises that you want to have a positive impact on the world, something that is becoming increasingly attractive to potential consumers, especially Millennials. A few ways you might implement CSR include being more eco conscious, committing to be carbon neutral, giving back to the community, supporting local charities, and manufacturing sustainable products.
And there you have it – six proven strategies for encouraging long-term business growth, even after it has started to stagnate.