Credit News

As the old adage goes, driving successful sales often boils down to one point: Identifying a need and fulfilling it better than the other person. But while some business tenets never change, others do-a lot.

The Internet has radically altered how your customers shop. Now they can instantly compare prices on practically everything without even leaving home.

Where does this leave you, the business owner? Instead of worrying about competitors across the street, you now need to consider those halfway around the world, too. But, all is not lost.

1) Now more than ever, customer service pays - We've all heard it, so why do so many ignore it? People like to buy from honest and fair folks. Period.

In the past, if a customer felt slighted by a business, he might have warned a few friends or family members. Net loss: Maybe a few sales. But now, that same person goes online and warns millions to avoid a business. Why not offer him reasons to rave about it instead?

2) Make your presence known - Advertising in TV or radio can be expensive and ridiculously easy to avoid now, thanks to technology. How many DVR users out there do you believe watch every commercial? Exactly! You can do a better job online, targeting only your base.

Whether you're selling plasma TVs or pecan pies, consider writing articles for those sites that share your interest. Blog about your service. Think viral. Give people a reason to seek out what you're selling, not avoid it.

3) Security, security, security - Identity theft has skyrocketed. And many people are still wary of giving their credit card information over the Internet.

List the strengths provided by better credit cards, such as zero percent fraud liability and 24-hour customer service. Calm your customers' fears by informing them of your security every step of the way and watch your sales soar.

4) Consider online auctions - Think auction sites are just the equivalent of online bric-a-brac yard sales? Think again. Many brick and mortar stores would need to close their doors forever if not for the healthy business these sites offer them.

After the success of eBay®, online auction sites are now everywhere. Explore them all. Find out which one best fits your needs. For many customers, the excitement and lure of an online auction's low prices are too tantalizing to pass up.

5) Make your customer's checkout a pleasant experience - This is the way many customers will remember the satisfaction (or lack thereof) of their overall transaction with you. Why not have them leave with a positive note?

No one likes to fill out forms again and again. For online businesses, offer to duplicate your customers' home address into their credit card's mailing address, and securely store the information for future "one-click" order ease. Assure them (again) that their data is safe. And finally, thank them for their valued business.

These five tips are only the beginning. While they can't guarantee your business' success, they may help you compete with those across the street and over thousands of miles away as well.