Can we all just agree, things aren’t what they used to be? Let’s just get that out of the way.  Consumer buying habits have changed. No one listens to traditional media channels. Hundreds of your client emails go unopened. Getting social becomes a whole new way for customers to ignore you. For any business owner who has sat looking over last month’s sales and wondered “What’s happened to my customers?” this is for you!

If this sounds all too familiar, let me pose this question to you; how do you gain the attention of an over-scheduled and over-stimulated new consumer? It’s a complicated problem, but I believe I have a solution to restore some optimism in your outlook. To borrow a quote from the famed Steve Martin, “Be so good they can’t ignore you.”

I love this quote so much. I have it pinned to the bulletin board in my office. It reminds me of what it takes to be successful in this business, or any business; Persistent Excellence. From what customers see on-line to my store front, merchandising displays, selection, design and most importantly customer service, maintaining consistent quality is the key. Excellence is what builds a reputation and keeps customers coming back.

Maintaining a high level of excellence takes a well-crafted plan and the discipline to stick to it.  So, if you’re ready to take the next step and to turn your customers into business boosting referral machines, I’ve got seven critical ways to get more customers to notice you.

1. Be Awesome – Step one if you want to grow your business through referrals is to do precisely what you’ve promised the customer you’d do. Be open when you say you are. Don’t leave early. Finish projects on time. Be professional. Dress the part. Basically, deliver what the customer expects, plus a little extra. It’s the only way to be successful.
2. Become an Expert – Inspire customer confidence by becoming a source of valued advice in all kinds of ways. Fill your website with helpful information that customers are searching for like how to hang artwork. Write articles, teach classes and host business meetings at your shop. By explaining the value of custom framing to customers, you build credibility for your company brand and increase the chances you’ll be remembered.
3. Your Silent Salespeople – Help customers visualize what great custom framing can do with inspired frame displays. Please, I beg you. Don’t merchandising your store walls with tired, outdated moulding. You walls are your resume. Treat them like it! Put those silent salespeople to work by showing off your framing talents. Inspire customers with ideas to get them talking.
4. Wow your Customers –The best way to get referrals is to be so good they want to brag about you. Look for ways to improve the customer experience at the counter. Show them creative ways design their project with one-of-a-kind style. Let customers see your care in wrapping their art in tissue paper. Offer a guarantee or free delivery and installation. Showing your expertise, professionalism and personal service is the best way to earn customers referrals… and the best part, it doesn’t cost you a thing. 
5. Design like a Star – Ordinary doesn’t inspire. Get customers excited with creative touches that encourage repeat business. Stack the frames. Show them the fillet. Be enthusiastic during the design process. It gets them energized about the buying experience and sets you apart from your competition. Need new ideas to incorporate into your frame design? Get inspired on Pinterest. Check out my pins at https://www.pinterest.com/finerframes/
6. Referral Candy – A simple way to encourage retail referrals is with a referral program. There are many options, so it’s up to you on how to set it up. A simple way is to add a “Get Rewarded” offer on your newsletter or website. Sweeten up your offer. Encourage customers to Share Your Coupon with friends via email or Facebook. The friend gets a $25 coupon and the customer gets $25 off their next order. It’s simple and effective.
7. Ask when they’re Smiling – The best time to ask a customer for a referral is when they’re smiling with delight at their new frame. Even if it a simple phrase, “Don’t keep us a secret. We love referrals” don’t miss the chance to let them know how to help your business grow. More formal referral and incentive programs keep customers coming back. But how about trying this to get started? Hand customers a printed thank you card asking them to “share the love”. Be sure to include ways for them to leave reviews on your social media platforms.

Being adored takes diligent work and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of your business; from your products to customer care and creativity. Not being ignored is the trick. Following these tips is an important start. Adding a concentrated on-line marketing strategy that includes a branded website and social media platforms will keep you at the center of attention.