Hopefully I'm preaching to the converted here, but I think there are a few little fish out there that are not getting the most out of their customer base.

It's important to go back to basics and remember that once someone has purchased something from you once, if the purchasing process was positive, chances are they will buy from you again!

You don't have to wait for them to come to you though! Why not look at a strategy for inviting your customers back to visit you often! Here are a couple of examples of what you can do:

If your business involves shipping product to your customers:

send them a card with a VIP Coupon number on it with a percentage discount or free shipping offer on their next purchase
put a couple of extra ones in there for their friends - customers that have had a good experience will tell their friends, and if there's a discount involved, they'll be even more likely to pass it on!

If your business is service oriented:

consider using email to promote what's happening in your world. Perhaps there's a new service you're offering, or you simply had a great experience with a customer you'd like to share. People like to hear stories about what others are doing. And if you do share an experience, or ask a customer to provide a case study or referral - send them a little something to thank them. It's these personal touches that will encourage your customers to come back!

In most cases, the use of social media is designed to draw people to your website and to encourage them to purchase your product or service. Whenever you send out information, whether it be electronic or in hard copy, make sure that the piece is branded well and clearly shows the company's web site. For example, advertise a great offer or promotion on Facebook, but ensure that the customer has to click through to your website to see more. Who knows what other products they might purchase whilst looking through the site?

Branding and consistency is also key - make sure that all your collateral has a similar look and feel which will help in recalling the company name or web address down the track.

If you'd like further advice on looking after your customers, consider me your new BFF! Give me a buzz!