6 Quick Ways to Grow Your Business
Using Your Customer Database

Chances are, you’ve heard the rumours that databases are amazing for your business. I don’t know how to break this to you, but it’s true. They are the next big thing. Actually, they are the big thing happening right now. Data is the transformational change that is happening simultaneously and sweeping through almost every industry. So if you haven’t jumped on the bandwagon yet, click here for a quick guide to starting a database from scratch.

But assuming you have a customer database up and running, here are 6 clever ways to make the most of it for your business!

#1 Learn from the information 

A database is one of the most important assets a company can have. For one, use it as a learning resource. Data is the perfect tool to help you spot emerging trends. Do most of your client own a mobile device? Maybe you should consider targeting them with QR codes, communicating through SMS marketing and optimising your emails for mobile users, for example. These are the type of findings that can help you grow your business.

#2 Segment your list

Very rarely would all customers be the same. In 9 out of 10 cases you would need to segment your contacts. Group them together according to their likes, preferences, type of relationship; for example prospects, existing customers, suppliers, partners etc. Keep your contacts well organized. This would save you time when looking for a specific group, and also optimize your marketing efforts. You will be able to send different campaigns to different segments (for example, one campaign for recently-joined customers and a different one for loyal customers who have been with you for years).

#3 Use the data to personalize content and campaigns

That one is pretty self-explanatory. Data allows you to create campaigns that are targeted like never before. People today are tech-savvy and want content that is not only relevant to them but personalized as well. Forget about sending communications to your dear Sir/Madam, and jazz it up a little bit. Send more tailored messages that hit the spot.

#4 Get Personal

Send Happy Birthday and Happy Holidays messages. It’s only a small act but it does make a big difference. In today’s technology driven world, consumers are always plugged in, so why not say hello or happy birthday!

#5 Stay ahead of the competition

As we mentioned, customer data is big, Big, BIG. Maybe your competition already has customer lists of their own? Maybe they don’t. Bottom line is, data will bring you a competitive edge or at the very least would level the playing field. Either way, if you fail to gather and use data, you will be behind in the game.

#6 Follow up

A study by National Sales Executive Association, found that 48% of sales people never follow up on leads, however 80% of all sales are made after the 5th or 12th contact, depending on the product. So keep your interactions with contacts well recorded and set yourself reminders to follow up with relevant and personalized content. I bet you don’t want to miss on sales.

As you can, see there are many opportunities for developing your business, growing your audience and making sales, once you have a customer database. If you need more guidance how to incorporate data in your day-to-day activities, have a look at our comprehensive Growth Formula.

And let me know, how do you use your customer database to grow your business?