Customers vary greatly from one business to another, but in any business, customers are essential. Whether you call them customers, clients, or subscribers, you wouldn’t have a business without them. That is why their feedback is so incredibly important. We need to keep our customers happy, coming back for more, and spreading the good word about our businesses!
My business, Wonder Threads, is a line of onesies, tees, and tech accessories. Over the past five years, I have physically placed myself in front of my customers by selling my products at street fairs, indie designer markets, and special events in NYC and beyond. I have witnessed every type of customer feedback, and taken it all (the good and the bad) into consideration. The good includes smiles, gushing, and squeals of “This is the cutest thing ever!” Luckily, most of the comments are like that. I mean, come on, who doesn’t love something tiny and cute made for someone who is also tiny and cute? Well, there are those customers who just walk right by, or who occasionally show disgust and offer the rare, full on insult– “How much?! It’s not THAT cute!” (Um, I’m standing right here. I can hear you!) These reactions show me exactly who is and who isn’t my customer.
My absolute favorite feedback comes from the little ones themselves. If her or his little face lights up upon spotting my t-shirts, I know I’ve done well. The best is when they are allowed to pick out their own shirt, immediately change into it, then strike a proud pose for me. This makes my heart swell, reminds me why I do what I do, and is some really encouraging feedback.
Chatting with my customers gives me more insight than just whether or not they like my products. I’m also made aware of the most common questions– “What size do I buy?”, ” Does this come in another color?”, “Do you have anything with a monkey on it?”. I’ve also come to realize that a lot of people are buying my products as gifts for baby showers and birthdays. I’ve had more aunt and uncle customers than parents buying for their own children. All of this information shows me what I need to convey on my website, and inspires new product designs, as well as blog posts.
When designing a new product, I again look to my customers. This is particularly true with my line of tech accessories. I create a small batch, display it, and watch people react. I can gather super valuable information, including any tweaks the design might need, by engaging my customers in a quick, friendly conversation. Great feedback fuels my confidence for moving forward with a larger production investment of that new product.
We can’t read our customers’ minds. Their feedback, whether in person or in a Facebook post, is an integral part of business. Involve them, engage them, and go get ‘em!
-Diana Rodgers
Wonder Threads
@wonderthreads
***This was Best Business Tip #58 . Read the other 99 Best Business Tips.***
