All companies know that the final holy grail in their business is their customers. No matter what industry and whatever business model a company has, their revenue is generated from their customers.
The same concept goes for barbershops, and it only makes sense if you’re out there trying to find some practical tips on how to expand your customer base.
Some entrepreneurs may agree that it is quite difficult to get new customers in their barbershop as many men may already have their favorite barber and intend to try new styles. There is also stiff competition in the industry. However, with a few tips and tricks, you can gain the upper hand over your opponents. It’s time to apply the following techniques and methods so you can reach more of your target market:
1. Invest in a barbershop software
With most people using mobile devices almost 24/7 these days, your customers will appreciate the option of ordering your haircuts online. Online and advance booking of barber services has become very popular. There’s a good chance this advantage can help you get new clients, especially for busy men who especially have to plan their weekly schedules in advance.
By allowing your customers to book their own, you assure them of your availability and that they can get your service in no time. This also means they don’t have to wait in long lines, which boosts their overall customer experience. In addition, you will get more appointments as they will be able to see your availability in real time. Check out more benefits of barbershop software Let your store help you decide if you should invest in it today:
- Reservations Convenient Reservations: Most of the younger generation prefer to book online. With a reliance on technology and gadgets, young people want to maximize convenience, and software provides exactly that. In addition to increasing bookings, barbershop appointment booking software gives you an edge over businesses that only book appointments during regular business hours. While they have customers waiting in line, impatient and annoyed, you will have a smoother workflow without wasting time for both parties.
- Easy upselling and cross-selling: Good scheduling software can also maximize profits. The software can inform your customers about the comprehensive services you offer, so there are more opportunities for them to take advantage of more than just a haircut. After all, if they can comfortably sit on the barber’s chair, they may just need a good shave or some other service while they’re in your salon.
- Allows you to maintain relationships: One innovative and unique aspect of this software is the personalized services that you can provide to your customers. You can access their information such as birthdays so you can greet them and offer other special birthday promotions and discounts. Such connections allow you to build and maintain relationships with customers.
2. Use Social Media
In the past, if you wanted to get more customers, you would create ads in the newspaper or be listed on the yellow pages. Fast-forward to today, where pretty much anything in the world can be found online, you can now maximize your marketing and advertising efforts through digital platforms. Nothing beats the visibility that social media platforms bring, like the role of Social media in digital marketing skyrocketed in the past decade.
In regards to the marketing of goods and businesses, social media has revolutionized almost every aspect of the online world and the way people perceive information. Most people are active in at least one platform. People can connect with their favorite brands through it and brand awareness increases dramatically. You can create a company profile, post photos and regular offers, and communicate with your customers.
3. Launch a loyalty program
Another golden strategy to attract customers or retain them is through loyalty programs. While this strategy involves some investment and effort, all of them are worth it. And there is an alternative to the printed loyalty cards above and digital cards instead. With an internet loyalty program, you no longer have to deal with additional marketing costs like loyalty cards, stickers, stamps, etc.
There are many ideas on how to run loyalty program, but the basic way is to provide a digital stamp for each customer visit. Once they get a few hits, your company can reward them with some discounts, free gifts, or even free services.
Conclusion
Acquiring customers can be challenging and daunting as there are so many tactics available for you to try. But the ways mentioned in this article are surefire ways to get more customers and retain your repeat customers. Also, keep in mind that these strategies will take time for your business to reap the benefits. It’s important to keep moving forward and be open to positive changes for your business.
