People buy from brands that they know and love, it’s as simple as that. When it comes to starting and running a small business, this can be an obstacle to overcome. People are seemingly more likely to buy from a brand that they are familiar with and that has already gained their trust. We all know that humans are most definitely creatures of habit.
Mashable published a great infographic that shows how and why people fall in love with brands. Here are a few highlights that I think are the most relevant to small businesses:
- Treat your customers well – The infographic quotes Mark Cuban, who said, “Treat your customers like they own you. Because they do.” Anyone in the business world knows that this is true. Customers make or break your business; it’s as simple as that. We all know that customer service is a pillar of good business, yet many businesses are still lacking in this area. In our technology-driven world, it is even easier for people to spread their good or bad experiences with a company. Make sure your business is one of the good ones by making customer service a priority. If you don’t, you’ll take the risk of losing business—89 percent of people have said they stopped doing business with a company because of bad customer service. I know I have, and I’m sure you have too.
- Be visual – It’s certainly no secret that visuals are important. World famous brands can even have specific colors associated with them—bright red Coke can, anyone? Mashable’s infographic suggests that as many as 90 percent or more of buying decisions are influenced by visual factors. This in part is due to the way colors are used having an impact on the way we see and respond to something. So, when it comes to your business, choose colors that suit your brand. This may help grow your sales in a positive way.
- Have a great website – I know, I know, this is pounded into the heads of small business owners over and over. But there really is no substitute for a great website. You can have Facebook, Twitter, and Yelp pages until you’re blue in the face. But having a well-organized, visually stimulating, easy to navigate website is an absolute must for any and all businesses, small or large. In fact, 46 percent of people say that a company’s website design is the top factor in determining their credibility.
What is your business doing to get customers to love your brand?
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