This is part one of “where to find Customers”. Click here for part two.
I did 2 seminars at a trade show in Chicago recently and I met so many amazing small business owners. For some reason, it felt like they all had a version of the same question.
“Jane, where do I find more customers? How do I find people who can afford my stuff? My friends and family can’t buy my products. What should I be doing? “
Today’s episode runs through 5 specific ways to get customers using “old school” strategies my clients have used to get paying customers. I give you real-life examples of what other fashion designers and creative entrepreneurs have done to get in front of the “right” people. And by the “right” people, I mean people who fit 3 important criteria:
- They like what you have to offer
- They “get it” and understand the value
- They can afford it
Have a listen…
You can also listen to this episode on iTunes and Stitcher Radio.
Mentioned in the episode:
- Imperfect Action monthly coaching membership
- Adeline Olmer from French Secrets
- Kleinfelds
- Part two of “Where to Find Customers” is at this link
What do YOU think?
Have you tried any of these 5 strategies? Would you be willing to get a side job just to meet your ideal customers? I’d LOVE to know so leave me a comment below and thanks!
Jane
P.S. If you’re serious about marketing your brand and getting more sales, more consistently, you have to check out my monthly business coaching program, “Imperfect Action”. Enrollment is limited so if you want IN, go check it out and get on the list. 🙂
Super advice! I hadn’t thought of half of those! Even though I wear my clothes (ok, duh…meaning my brand’s clothes and accessories) when I step outside, and I DO get compliments, I get all tongue-tied if I try to sell them (similar to your friend who made fingerless gloves).
I love the idea of signing up for a gym where my client hangs out. And the possibility of working in the neighborhood and/or boutique where they go to buy. Hmmm! Food for thought! I think I know the perfect place.
Ohhhhhh so exciting! I want to know what you decide to do! I’ll tell ya, I used to PRACTICE what to say when I got a compliment on what I was wearing. Because I felt so dorky and promotional at first. But it goes away – after about the 30th time LOL.
– JH
Fantastic advice. I just moved about 2000 miles from home and I’m also launching a new website (rebranding my stuffed animals). A light bulb went off when you said: “go where your customers are”. I was talking to my neighbor and it turned out he was the Director for the Santa Fe Children’s Museum. I used to teach recycled art workshops and the conversation presented itself and I plugged myself. Well, Cody asked if I had a biz card. Well, I not only had a business card for the stuffed animals, I thought you have pics of prototypes from teaching. Why not design a quick marketing sheet with the prototypes and hand deliver it with the business card. Following morning I stopped by and dropped off the marketing stuff. Cody told me they are always looking for teachers and loved the recycled workshop. He also invited me to the fundraiser happening this month. I think teaching part-time again could be a perfect way to meet my customers! Thanks, Jane for the ole skool tips! Just brilliant 😉
Now THAT’S what I’m talkin’ about…Great work, Margee!
– Jane