CURLY AND CANDID

Increasing your customer base is undoubtedly one of the best ways to ensure the ongoing success of your business. Sure, keeping the customers you already have is important too, if you want your company to grow, new customers are a vital part of the equation. If you want to attract more customers, you have to be smart about it.

We know you already have a lot on your plate as a business owner, below, we are going to take a look at some of the most simple (but effective) ways to attract more customers right now:

1. Attract More Customers – Give Your Packaging a Glow-Up

First impressions count, and in the world of products, your packaging is essentially strutting down the catwalk, trying to catch the customer’s eye. Think of your packaging as the peacock feathers of your product—make it bold, make it unique, and most importantly, make it Instagrammable.

Whether you’re selling artisan cheeses, or handcrafted soaps, or you need the services of a pharmaceutical packaging company, a packaging glow-up can turn your product from wallflower to belle of the ball. And remember, eco-friendly packaging isn’t just good for the planet; it’s also incredibly trendy right now. Win-win!

2. Be a Social Butterfly (Online)

In today’s world, if you’re not on social media, do you even exist? Having a strong online presence is like being the life and soul of the party. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses of your business, run contests, post customer testimonials, and engage directly with your followers. It’s all about creating a community around your brand. Plus, nothing beats the thrill of getting a notification that someone has tagged your product in their latest beach selfie.

3. Loyalty Programs: Because Everyone Loves a Freebie – Attract More Customers

Who doesn’t love a good old loyalty program? It’s the business equivalent of saying, “I like you. Let’s hang out more.” Whether it’s a stamp card, points system, or members-only discounts, loyalty programs encourage repeat business and make customers feel valued. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to buy one of those fancy stamps with your logo on it.

4. Collaborate With Local Celebrities (a.k.a. Influencers)

No, we’re not talking about getting David Beckham to endorse your local café (though if you can, power to you). Local influencers—those with a dedicated following in your area—are golddust for spreading the word about your business. Offer them a free product or service in exchange for a review or social media shoutout. It’s like having the cool kid at school tell everyone you’re their friend.

5. Attract More Customers – Host Events That Are Fun

Events are a great way to get people through the door, but please, for the love of all that is holy, make them fun. Wine tastings, DIY workshops, live music—whatever fits your brand. Just make sure it’s something people will leave their house for. And yes, having a quirky theme can help. Ever heard of a ‘90s sitcom trivia night? Now you have, and you’re intrigued, aren’t you?

6. Turn Your Customers Into Mini-Advertisers

Word of mouth is still one of the best forms of advertising out there. Encourage your customers to spread the word by offering referral discounts or incentives. It’s like setting loose a bunch of friendly bees who go out, pollinate the world with news of your business, and then come back with more customers. Just, you know, without the risk of getting stung.

7. Get Involved in the Community

Show that you’re not just about taking from the community but giving back too. Sponsor a local sports team, participate in charity events or host community clean-up days. It’s great PR, and hey, you might just feel all warm and fuzzy inside too. Plus, it’s an excellent excuse to get one of those oversized cheques.

8. Flash Sales and Promotions

Everybody loves feeling like they’ve snagged a bargain. Flash sales and limited-time promotions create a sense of urgency that can turn even the most hesitant of browsers into buyers. It’s the retail equivalent of the last call at the bar—suddenly, everyone wants in.

9. Revamp Your Website

In the digital age, your website is often the first point of contact with potential customers. Make sure it’s easy to navigate, visually appealing, and, crucially, mobile-friendly. Nothing sends a potential customer packing faster than a website that looks like it was designed during the dial-up era.

10. Attract More Customers – Educate Your Customers

Sometimes, people don’t know they need your product or service because they don’t understand it. Use your blog, social media, or even in-store workshops to educate your customers on the benefits of what you’re offering. It’s like dating—sometimes you need to let people know just how great you are before they realize what they’re missing.

11. Become a Storyteller, Not Just a Seller

In a world where everyone is selling something, be the one who tells a story. Your business isn’t just a business; it’s a saga filled with heroes (your products) and quests (your services). Share your journey, the highs and lows, and the passion behind your brand through blog posts, videos, and social media stories. People cling to narratives, so give them a tale they can’t help but follow.

12. Quirky Holidays: Your New Marketing Calendar – Attract More Customers

Forget just Christmas and Easter; the calendar is littered with quirky holidays that can be pure gold for promotional activities. National Donut Day? Perfect for cafes and bakeries to give a free donut with every coffee. International Talk Like a Pirate Day? A treasure hunt sale could lead customers to discounts. Use these days as a framework for fun, themed promotions that give people a reason to engage.

13. ‘Try Before You Buy’ Experiences

Let’s face it, commitment is scary—whether it’s to a new Netflix series or a product. Ease the fear by offering ‘try before you buy’ experiences. This could be free samples, a trial period for services, or demo days where customers can come in and use the product. It not only builds trust but also lets your product speak for itself.

14. Feedback Loops That Actually Reward – Attract More Customers

People love to be heard, but they love being rewarded even more. Set up a feedback system that doesn’t just thank customers for their input but also rewards them. This could be in the form of discounts, entry into a prize draw, or even a small freebie on their next purchase. It shows you value their opinion and improves customer retention.

15. Make Your Business a Destination

Why should people visit your business? Make your location more than just a place to shop; make it a destination. This could mean hosting art installations, having an in-store café with irresistible treats, or creating a kids’ play area so parents can browse in peace. When your business becomes a destination, it’s not just about the product; it’s about the experience.

16. Go Where Your Customers Are To Attract More Customers

Don’t wait for customers to come to you—go to them. Pop-up shops, stalls at local markets, or even a mobile version of your service can introduce your business to new people. It’s like a touring band; you’re broadening your fanbase by showing up where they least expect you.

17. Personalisation: Beyond Just Names

In a cookie-cutter world, personalisation stands out. And we’re not just talking about slapping a name on a product. Tailor your offerings to the needs and preferences of your customers. This could mean customized products, recommendations based on previous purchases, or even personalized shopping experiences. Show your customers that you see them as individuals, not just sales.

18. Gamify the Shopping Experience

Turn shopping with you into a game. This could mean a loyalty program that’s more like a quest, with levels to unlock and rewards at each stage. Or incorporate AR (augmented reality) into your in-store or online experience, where customers can find virtual tokens for discounts. Shopping becomes an adventure, and who doesn’t love a good treasure hunt?

19. ‘Behind the Scenes’ Tours – Attract More Customers

People are nosy. We love to know how things are made, who’s making them, and the secrets behind the scenes. Offer tours (virtual or in-person) that show the inner workings of your business. It could be how your products are made, the day-to-day running of your service, or even the history of your business location. It adds depth to your brand and makes customers feel part of your story.

20. Community-Based Product Development

Involve your customers in the development of new products or services. This could be through voting on new flavours, and designs, or even suggesting their own ideas. It not only ensures you’re creating products your customers want but also makes them feel invested in your brand. After all, everyone wants to see their favourite win.

 

As you can see, attracting new customers for your business does not have to be overly complicated, and it does not necessarily have to cost you a huge amount of time and money either. Of course, you may not want to put into action all of the ideas above, but even trying out a few of them when you can, should see your business gaining more traction with people who may not have given you a try before.

 

Running an equine business is no walk in the park – or leisurely trot around the ring, for that matter. It’s important you do anything you can to make life easier and give your business an advantage. Here are some time management tips that will help you do just that. Apologies in advance for all horse and riding-related puns.

Harness the Power of a CAFM System – Better Time Management for Equine Businesses

First out of the gate, let’s talk about the humble CAFM system – That’s “Computer-Aided Facility Management”, for those not in the acronym loop. Think of it as your digital stable hand. It helps manage everything from stall assignments to maintenance schedules. It can track feed deliveries, farrier visits, and even which horse prefers to turn left more than right. A CAFM system organises your equine operations with finesse.

Better Time Management for Equine Businesses – Delegate Like a Dressage Champion

In dressage, every movement is precise and purposeful, just like how you should delegate tasks in your business. Identify the strengths of your team and assign responsibilities accordingly. Maybe Jamie has a knack for calming the more spirited horses? Alex can spot a loose shoe from a mile away. Play to their strengths. Do this and you’ll have a well-oiled machine that runs smoother than a gallop on soft turf.

Implement Time Blocks for Training

Ever find yourself at sunset, wondering where the day galloped off to? Implementing time blocks for training sessions can rein in those runaway hours. Allocate specific times for different training needs. Jumping practice in the morning, dressage in the afternoon, and so on. It’s like setting up fences in an open field, giving structure to what was once chaos.

Better Time Management for Equine Businesses – Prioritise with the Precision of a Show Jumper

Show jumping requires pinpoint accuracy and a clear understanding of which obstacles to tackle first. Apply this to your daily tasks. Prioritise what needs immediate attention (like that loose shoe). Then decide what can wait. A well-maintained priority list is your map to a clear round.

Embrace the Digital Round Pen: Online Booking and Scheduling

Swap out the old pen-and-paper method for digital booking and scheduling. Online systems allow clients to book their own appointments. This reduces the back-and-forth and frees up your time for other important tasks – like actually working with the horses.

Scheduled Maintenance: An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure

Regularly scheduled maintenance for your facilities and equipment can prevent those time-consuming, unexpected repairs. This includes everything from checking fences for wear and tear to ensuring your riding gear is in top-notch condition. After all, it’s better to plan a repair than to deal with a broken stirrup mid-lesson.

Better Time Management for Equine Businesses – Cultivate a Culture of Punctuality

Finally, do what you can to foster an environment where punctuality is valued. This means starting and ending lessons on time, sticking to the feeding schedule, and ensuring appointments are respected. It sets a professional tone for your business and shows that you value both your time and that of your clients.

 

Managing time in an equine business is about more than just keeping the clock; it’s about creating a rhythm that allows both horses and humans to thrive and the above tips will certainly help you with that, so give them a go.