For business owners, it’s beneficial to keep an eye on emerging trends. But now, more than ever, company leadership should be looking to capitalize on new consumer buying habits and cater to evolving preferences. This year has been a challenge for the majority of businesses with the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there are signs of recovery and healing. If you’re looking to drive future sales, responding to trends is critical. Here are some ways you can use consumer trends to keep customers happy and increase the chances of converting new leads.
Create an online presence
You’re probably already selling products or promoting your brand online via social networks. But in light of what has happened in the world in recent months, it’s wise to consider investing more in digital marketing and online promotions. Internet usage has reached an all-time high during the lockdown. Many people still feel more comfortable buying online and researching businesses on the net, rather than going into a store.
There are endless benefits to enhancing your online presence. You can expand your reach and attract new customers. If you are not already, start selling your products and services through your website or social media channels. You can also interact with clients to build stronger relationships. Take a look at your website and see what changes you need to make. Consider hiring a web design or marketing expert if you’re not generating much traffic, or your site is outdated. We will likely be living with the effects of the virus for a long time, and embracing online marketing and selling will allow you to push your business forward.
Make shopping simple and safe.
It’s impossible to read a paper or watch a news bulletin without seeing or hearing grim headlines. At the moment, and understandably, consumers are concerned about safety. Customers want to be reassured by business owners, and they can make safe and secure purchases. Customers will be keen to take advantage of convenient, simple, quick ways of placing orders and organizing deliveries.
Whether you run a restaurant that offers takeaway meals, you’re selling clothes via your website, or you own a real estate agency, you can take advantage of innovative technology to impress customers and keep them safe. Using a QR code maker is an excellent idea if you’re looking for quick, safe ways of enabling clients to access information, purchase a product, or make an order. If you have a menu on your website, for example, the customer can scan the code, choose what they want, and make their payment in a matter of seconds. They can do all of this without touching anything or even leaving the comfort of their sofa. Mobile use is increasing, so it’s beneficial to ensure your website is mobile-friendly. Doing so will have your business ready for future sales.
Diversifying products and services
The pandemic may have caused problems for many businesses, but for some, sales have skyrocketed. Strategically, it’s useful for business owners to analyze sales data by looking at consumer trends. See what kinds of products and services are in demand and adjust and diversify your product ranges and services accordingly. Many people who would ordinarily work in an office, such as working from home, will continue to do so. If you sell products, think about how you could tap into this growing market. For example, a furniture retailer could look into developing new designs for small spaces or provide solutions such as comfortable, stylish, height-adjustable chairs that are suitable for work and fit in with kitchen or dining room decor.
Consumer trends come and go. However, there is no doubt that we are seeing significant changes in the way people work, shop, and live. Predicting and responding to new trends will help your business drive future sales keeping you in business for years to come. Here’s to YOUR success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Executive, and Leadership Coach. She is the President of Infinity Coaching, Inc., where she can help you up-level your skills so that you can up-level your income, career, business, or life. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides organizational training and one-on-one and group coaching. She is also the host of “Let’s Coach with Carolyn”. You can listen to the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or wherever you enjoy listening to podcasts.
