The ideal way to gain insight to your connections or target market is to simply follow your clients. Not literally or in person, I’m referring to social networks. Such networks will give you an in-depth look into what your clients like, share, and appreciate. While some social networks aren’t as open, paying attention to comments and conversations on your own page is often a great starting point.
You can use Twitter and Google search results to see what’s trending with your client base. [tweet this]
What do they spend their time discussing? Who do they interact with?
Pay attention to the details
The advantage of paying attention to your connections and their interests is that you get to stay ahead of the trend. Discussions, comments, and even sound-bites can tell you what they’re thinking and what’s important to them. Having the tiniest bit of information in this area can give you a strong advantage in the market.
Stay connected
Of course, the best way to really stay connected with your contacts is to simply stay in direct communication with them. It’s often as simple as an email or phone call that asks them what you can do for them. In many cases, a customer may not feel it necessary to keep you updated on their own personal interests. So if you want some good informative leads, don’t be hesitant to ask and show them that they matter to your brand.
This is primarily so that you can show them that what’s important to them is important to you as well. Remember that an appreciative client is the ideal client and will be more likely to promote good word of mouth marketing for your brand. When you demonstrate your interest in their well-being, an understanding of their interest and ability to work and develop a solid relationship with them, they’ll be more inclined to share and refer you to others.
By simply staying in contact with your clients and updating yourself on their needs and desires, you’ll be able to stay ahead and stand out as someone that really cares about their business relationships. When you do that, converting a client into a loyal customer will be easy.
Author:
Maria Elena Duron, is managing editor of the Personal Branding Blog, CEO (chief engagement officer) of buzz2bucks– a word of mouth marketing firm, and a professional speaker and trainer on developing social networks that work. She provides workshops, webinars, seminars and direct services that help create conversation, connection, credibility, community and commerce around your brand. Maria Duron is founder and moderator of #brandchat – a weekly Twitter chat focused on every aspect of branding that is recognized by Mashable as one the 15 Essential Twitter Chats for Social Media Marketers.
