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Communication is the key!
October 29, 2009 :: Posted by - Sue :: Category - Biz Advice - Get Noticed!
By Contributing Columnist Barbra La Bosco aka AllAbouttheButtons
The last 20 years have grown leaps and bounds in the communications sector. I grew up with one corded phone in my home that had a rotary dial…what’s a cord/rotary?! Some basic forms of people to people interaction are still called for in todays fast paced world.
Online selling fosters a new way of communication that can be a vital asset and boost for your sales if you follow some simple guidelines. First, answer your e-mails and convos promptly. Many have shops online as a 2nd ‘job’ and we are all pressed for time but try to answer within 24 hours even if it’s just to say “Hi, got your question and I will get back to you ASAP.” Put thought into your response. If you cannot fulfill a buyer’s request, offer another solution or even suggest another seller for their needs. If the request is for something you’d like not to be a part of, decline politely. Kindness matters!
When you’ve made a sale, convo your buyer thanking them and telling them when it will be mailed. This lets them know there’s an attentive, live body behind the store front. Make up an e-mail template on your computer and cut and paste such as “Thanks so much for choosing to shop with me. Your (blank) will be mailed first thing on (blank).”
Gratitude goes far.
Finally, when you package your item add a thank you note. They can be pre-printed but should be hand signed. If you don’t have time to make your own, check out the wonderful promo and card makers online. CardMaven is a wonderful seller with an A+ product. A note can be on the back of your business card, a 2″x2″ note card, or even a written “Thank you” on an invoice. Again, attention to detail counts.
In our constant communication world, try not to forget that a basic thank you goes a long way!
Image courtesy of CardMaven
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Tags: allaboutthebuttons, cardmavien, cards, communication, email, etsy, online business, online crafting, thank you, thank you cards
October 29th, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Hey Barbra, I love this! I am 26, but have had my home based doll and pattern business for over 6 years now and I always try to do all the things that you said. I believe it’s better to try to help all that you can, be kind, send a Thank You and answer questions. I agree that it makes such a big difference with buyers to send just a Thank You and let them know when their purchase is shipped and package it well too. Great Job on this. LOVE IT! Thank You for Sharing This!
Nichole of Raggedydays
October 30th, 2009 at 9:59 am
Very true. We need to be extra sweet to our customers. They are the reason we are here!
Great article!
November 1st, 2009 at 8:33 am
Thanks, BadMsM and Nicole. I do think it’s very important. Awhile ago a little extra kindness step on my part netted me a huge special order. It is so cool to make something that you already know is sold! And all because of a simple “thank you”.
November 28th, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Thanks for the advice! I just started adding thank you cards to my orders, and a bit of colorful tissue paper as well!
December 3rd, 2009 at 6:46 pm
[...] Communication is the Key [...]