ACRES OF DIAMONDS

Acres of Diamonds is the title of a book published over 70 years ago. It is also a phrase used by many motivational speakers to talk about people who go looking for riches (new business). All the while overlooking the potential riches (business) in their own back yard (their existing customers). Many businesses focus so hard on attracting new customers that they overlook their existing customers. New customers are certainly important for the growth of a business but existing customers are just as important, possibly even more so because they make a business “healthier”. Anyone familiar with advertising knows that first time customers absorb a certain percentage of a Company’s’ operating budget. However, working for a repeat customer actually “saves” the advertising expense for that customer. Therefore making work done for that customer more profitable. Previous customer records are not just customers, they are potential testimonials to be used in advertising promotions. They are also a source of repeat business and referrals because they are satisfied with the service they have previously received. As is the case with repeat customers, those customers referred do not “cost” anything in advertising expense which makes them also more profitable. Regarding customers who provide referrals, a way to say “thank you” is by offering them a Gift Service Certificate redeemable at their next appointment. They will appreciate the fact they have been acknowledged and it should naturally lead to more referrals. Contact existing customers via direct mail or e-mails.This is not only a chance to “stay in touch” but remind them of all the services you offer. Another reason to “stay in touch” is that people are busy and unfortunately may forget who provided them service in the past even though they were satisfied. If they are “mined” properly, existing customers will become the Acres of Diamonds in our own backyard. Related Articles and Information: ABCs of Advertising Advertising - the Essential Element Advertising the Bane-Clene Way Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business Customer Service in the Carpet Cleaning Industry Eleven Commandments of Good Business - What is a Customer? The Customer Is (Still) Always Right The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business There Is No Substitute for Service Tips for Increasing Your Carpet Cleaning Business What Makes a Company Successful in the Carpet Cleaning Business? Why Doesn’t My Advertising Work? Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner