Understanding and Valuing Your Customers
Introduction
In the world of decorated cookies, understanding and valuing your customers is crucial for the success and growth of your business. Lara Parodi, founder of Cookie Art Show, shares her experience and strategies for dealing with different types of customers, from those who bargain for the lowest price to loyal customers. This article provides a detailed look at best practices for managing and valuing your customer relationships.
The Importance of Community
Lara emphasizes the importance of building a community. The Cookie Art Show was born from the desire to create an environment where professionals could share knowledge, discuss challenges, and support each other. The community helps strengthen the market by providing mutual support and opportunities for collective growth.
Types of Customers
Price Bidders
These customers contact you seeking the lowest possible price, often comparing with other suppliers. It is essential not to succumb to this pressure, as significantly lowering your price can devalue your work. Maintain your fair pricing and explain the reasons for your pricing, highlighting the quality and effort involved in producing the cookies.
Loyal Customers
Loyal customers are those who return regularly and value your work. To maintain this loyalty, offer treats and gifts, such as an extra cookie or a small token. Know these customers well and their preferences, and always show gratitude for their loyalty.
Quotation Seekers
Some customers request quotes but do not return. This can happen for various reasons, including competition or simply indecision. It is important to accept that not all customers will become buyers and to focus on those who truly value your work.
Trial Seekers
Offering tastings can be an excellent way to attract new customers. Always have some extra cookies to offer as samples. An effective strategy is to deduct the tasting cost from the final order, encouraging purchase.
Exact Model Seekers
Some customers require seeing the exact model before confirming the order. This can be challenging, especially in handmade work where each piece is unique. Showing previous works and building a trust relationship is crucial to meet these expectations.
Valuing the Product
Decorated cookies are luxury products and should be valued as such. It is important to maintain prices that reflect the quality of your work and the time invested. Explain to customers the value of your product, highlighting the details and care involved in production.
Order and Pricing Management
Organizing your time and understanding your production capacity is essential for setting fair prices and avoiding overload. Know how many hours you can dedicate per week and how many orders you can handle without compromising the quality of your work. This will help maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Customer Loyalty
Keeping loyal customers is one of the keys to long-term success. Offer personalized service, remember special dates, and constantly show that you value their loyalty. Small gestures, such as a thank you or an unexpected gift, can significantly strengthen your relationship with your customers.
Growth and Innovation
Innovating and growing as a company is vital to staying competitive. Participate in events, seek new techniques and products, and always be willing to learn and evolve. Taking good care of your customers will ensure they keep coming back and recommending your work to others.
Conclusion
Managing and valuing your customers is an ongoing process that requires dedication and strategy. By following Lara Parodi’s tips, you can build a solid and successful business in the world of decorated cookies. Value your work, know your customers well, and always maintain quality and care in every detail.
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