Searching for ways to differentiate yourself from the competition?
Here
are some ideas that work for veterans who are viewed by their clients as
“more than just a gift basket designer.”
1. Pre-Design Questions
– To satisfy the buyer and recipient, a designer must ensure that every
area of the order is explored.
From
color to taste to allergies, every part of the design should be covered
when the order is taken. A thorough list of questions should be printed
on your internal order form.
2. Delivery Follow Up
– The work begins once the gift basket is delivered. A note/call should
be sent/made to the buyer to confirm delivery, which can be accompanied
by a photograph of the completed basket.
3. Non-Order Contact
– Condition clients to take your call by mailing them informative facts
about things that interest them most.
Whether a client
loves pets, sports, interior design or recreation, mailing occasional
newspaper and magazine clippings will help your client see you as more
of a partner in their lives and not just a gift maker. This is very
important to build profitable relationships.
4.
Celebratory Recognition
– When is the anniversary of the first time your client ordered? Is this
your client’s birth month? Send an appropriate card. If you have staff
members, have the entire group sign the card. You’ll be remembered by
clients for referrals and additional orders.
5. Competitive News
– Just learn about breaking news in your client’s industry? Pick up the
phone and tell the client what’s happening.
The
client may already know about the situation, but how many of your
service providers have done this for you? If you’re concerned about
higher telephone charges, use one of the many pre-paid phone cards on
the market to keep costs down.
Designers who build relationships with their
clients also build their sales throughout the year. And you can buy a
lot of brownies with that cash.
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