Launching a new business is exhilarating. But let’s be real—there’s a lot more at stake now. You need customers, not just a good product or service. And while word-of-mouth referral is nice, it’s like the weather: unpredictable and uncontrollable. You need actionable, multi-pronged strategies. Here’s are 5 proactive ways to find new customers:
1. Turn Social Media Advertising On Its Head
Social media ads are everywhere, but that’s not a reason to blend into the crowd. You want to stand out. Think Instagram filters. Picture this: you’re in the eco-friendly clothing business. Create a filter that dresses users in virtual clothes from your line. It’s playful, engages your audience, and creates buzz. All without breaking the bank.
2. Forge Local Alliances
Who said competition can’t be friendly? Partner up with local businesses that cater to the same clientele but aren’t direct competitors. Imagine running a craft beer bar near a pizza place. Co-host a “Craft & Crust Night.” You handle the brew; they handle the dough. You just doubled your exposure.
3. Make Content Marketing Your Superpower
Anyone can write a blog post. But you? You’re going to create an empire of value. Webinars, podcasts, ebooks—these are your weapons. Use AI to analyze customer behavior and trends and maybe even start an outline for you, but don’t let it dictate your voice. You’re not a machine. You have insights, humor, and creativity that AI can’t replicate. Use the tech, but keep the human touch.
4. Go Guerrilla with Community Engagement
Tired of the digital life? Hit the streets. Guerrilla marketing isn’t just for flash mobs. Think about placing stickers on stop signs leading people to your online store or distributing flyers in the shape of your product at a local fair. These small yet impactful gestures make people remember you.
5. Broaden Your Networking Horizons
Don’t limit networking to LinkedIn or industry events. You could meet your next big client while kayaking, at a community theatre, or at your kid’s sporting event or chess competition. Keep your business cards handy and be ready to pitch your startup at any moment. You don’t have to be obnoxious about it, but simply be ready if the conversation steers you toward an opportunity. Your personal life is an untapped reservoir of business potential.
So here's the question you need to ask yourself: Are you actually out there grinding to attract new customers, or are you stuck in a "build-it-and-they-will-come" fantasy?
Posting sporadically on your social account or doing occasional one-on-ones over coffee isn’t a strategy; it’s wishful thinking. To make a real impact, you have to diversify your approach, get creative, and most importantly, be proactive.
Get real with yourself, where is your effort going? If you’re leaning on low-risk, laid-back tactics and wondering why the sales aren’t rolling in, then know you have the power to make a change right now.
So what’s your choice—sitting back and hoping, or getting out there and doing?
