How Taking Your Business on the Road Can Expand Your Customer Base

Author: Cindy Trillo

More than 51% of consumers say that the biggest drawback of online shopping is that they are not able to feel and try the product, according to Brizfeel. What this should show you as a business owner is that there are consumers out there who prefer  traditional shopping, which includes face-to-face interaction with a business owner. That means that taking your business on the road not only makes sense, but could help you get in contact with consumers that are not internet savvy, or that prefer the “old ways” of doing business. It may seem a little more challenging than conducting your business online, but taking your business on the road can vastly expand your customer base. 

• 

Find networking opportunities everywhere

You will need to learn social skills if you are not good at connecting with other people face-to-face. Knowing how to start conversations with complete strangers at fairs, holiday parades at beaches, and trade shows and is important because of the kind of people who attend these events or visit such places. For example, 82% of people attending trade shows want to buy something, and 46% of attendees are executives or upper management, according to CEIR.

That means that when you take your business to these places, you need to be an empathetic, active listener who is always positive. A productive conversation with executives may lead to them investing in your business. The customers you speak to at these types of events will buy your products and also act as leads for your business. 

A car for your travels

Before you go out meeting people face-to-face you will need to get a vehicle with a high fuel economy, and versatile enough to take on many jobs. If you have product samples or products you want to sell on the road, your vehicle should have additional space for cargo. Make sure the car, truck or van you pick has enough safety features to keep you safe on the road.

Sponsor events to market your business

While you are on the road, try looking at city bulletin boards to see if there is a group that is seeking a sponsor.  should sponsor events related to your business or the services you offer. For example, sponsor a little league team championship game if your business is all about sports equipment. You will probably be given a chance to speak during events that you sponsor. What this does is that it gives you an opportunity to introduce your business or services to multiple people, and also create a positive brand. This positive brand image can indirectly influence attendees purchase intention, according to an article published in the International Journal of Business.

If you are good at speaking to crowds, find groups or organizations in your industry that are looking for speakers or presenters at their meetings. University student meetings and churches are also places that offer many speaking opportunities. If you impress attendees in those speaking sessions, they will definitely call you back and even recommend your services or products to people they know. These speaking functions may turn from marketing  opportunities into money-making opportunities. As long as you have an effective plan, you will make money for your business on the road.

You will also make life-long business partners and friends when you take your business on the road. There are also many skills you will learn  as your expand your customer base on the road.