BUILDING A CLIENTELE: 5 THINGS TO AVOID

There are a lot of right ways to build a clientele—word of mouth, promotions, social media, etc. However, there’s also a wrong way. We’re sharing a few things to avoid when building a clientele so you can get the right clients through your door again and again.  

No Social Media

Social Media is equivalent to today’s business card. If you are not using social media you are doing your business a disservice. Just like a business card, it’s easy for others to share and pass along. Social Media works as a great portfolio for potential clients to look at, and it’s the quickest way to reach a large audience. 

Never Saying No 

When you are first starting out or in the thick of building it is really easy to always say yes, to take on every client, and to stretch your boundaries. While I do believe it’s important to recognize opportunities it is okay to say no! You don’t want to start your business by breaking your boundaries. You want to keep in mind the type of clients you want long term— not clients that expect you to say yes to every demand. 

Missed Calls & Unread Texts

Between texts, calls, and DMs it is really easy to become overwhelmed with inquiring clients, but you want to avoid waiting too long to respond or not responding at all. While still respecting your boundaries and business hours, you always want to respond to clients even if you are telling them no. Ignoring clients is not a reputation you want and will surely loose you clients. 

Fake Followers

Like I mentioned, social media is so important! You should be consistently using social media for your business BUT it’s not always about the likes and follows. It’s important to focus on your target audience, and if you’re building a clientele, your target audience is potential clients. Avoid focusing on the numbers and instead focus on local potential clients. 

Big Discounts & Free Services

Discounts are a great way to get people in your door! I recommend discounts, promotions, referral deals, all of it. But, I don’t recommend discounts so generous your client is only going to come one time or when you offer deals. You want reoccurring clients! Always communicate that you are running a special and reiterate your returning prices.