Customers expect to be able to complete any transaction at any time with any vendor. More than half of Americans use smart phones and that percentage is on the rise, meaning vendors’ reputations will be formed not only by their service, but also by the command of their online voice. Those who aren’t fluent are left out of the conversation. Both of these are reinforced by technologies such as social media, mobile POS, apps, websites and email.
Mobile email is one of the more approachable facets of technology being widely used, but some vendors may question how to properly apply it to sales. The simple answer is don’t try to use it for something it’s not. Email is not the best avenue for sending large catalogues, but it works for disclosing order information and it functions well as stationary.
Social media broadens your reach by inviting customers to check in. Keep in mind that some conversations are best suited to social media platforms because they spark interest. Are your customers on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest? Launch social media pages and maintain them diligently. Photos and videos are extremely useful in drawing feedback from your customers. Websites are just as essential to vendors as social media pages, but serve a very different purpose. By coordinating your website with your social media efforts, you become one step closer to establishing yourself as a brand. Purchase your domain name or use a blog and build your site. No matter which route you take, a working website is the best home for information and inventory.
Mobile POS makes your life easier by making your customers’ lives easier. A simple hookup to your smartphone helps you process debit and credit cards no matter where your booth is set up. Check out Krugism Development LLC, developer of Registroid POS and Registroid Pro, and Harbortouch. Apps may not be something all vendors need, but it’s something to study and consider. Do you find yourself employing them for personal use? If so, it is important to give shoppers the same options you enjoy. Apps glue all of your other technologies together and make you accessible.