How to get repeat business?

[Former_Member]

We are constantly focused on getting new business but how do we encourage our customers to come back? I understand that we need to have quality products, excellent service, comparable prices and all that jazz in order for our customers to want to purchase from us again.
But I was wondering if anyone has had any success with repeat business?
Do you offer a referral program? Free shipping on next order? Coupons? Discounts?
Would love to hear your suggestions and ideas.

[Former_Member]

Since I'm still new to all of this and have only had 15 sales so far I haven't had any repeat customers just yet, but I'm hoping to get some soon!

For my last 4 orders I've been including a Thank You card with a little hand written note thanking them for their purchase and offering them a coupon code for 10% off their next purchase in my store. Not sure if it will get anyone to buy again, but we'll see. Couldn't hurt, right?

[AHandfulOfEarth]

I think a thank you card and a coupon is a step in the right direction for sure. How does one go about setting up a coupon code on Etsy?

[Former_Member]

Craftmatter, all you do it go to "your Etsy" scroll down to where it says promote and you will see a link for coupon code. Follow steps and there you go. I usually email the code to my friends and post it on fb and then right under my banner I will put the code information there. Good luck!

Diane

[AHandfulOfEarth]

Diane,

Thanks so much!

Julie

[Former_Member]

I've had a couple of repeat customers & I think it's just because they were happy with what I made for them the first time. It's really such a hit or miss thing. I make tutus, but there are about 2000 other tutus on here. ;-) I try to do things to make my items unique & always do whatever I can to make my customers happy. I just had a repeat customer that originally ordered $90 worth from me & I gave her a discount the 2nd time. I love the coupon code option. It's so easy to use!

[Former_Member]

I do thank you notes as well and I think packaging is key. They seem to like it if you take extra time to package it nicely. and yes....discounts for return customers always a good idea. I also do referral credits.

Diane

[AHandfulOfEarth]

All great ideas! Thanks for passing them along. I have been packing our items to reflect what we sell, and also including thank you notes.

Julie

[Former_Member]

Thank you everyone for your ideas! I need to start using the coupon code.

[Former_Member]

I can't wait to try the coupon code for my next buyer!

[Former_Member]

i use coupon codes too :)

[betsygrace]

Most of my repeat business had been from satisfied customers! Also, some of them have sent their friends/family over. I should start trying coupon codes! I do include business cards. I know I like to recieve those when I make a purchase to remember where I bought something! I also make my own tags that I sew into my linens. Then my name is always there with the product! :O)