Do you know why your customers are buying from you? Is it your products-the style and quality of your handmade work? Look deeper and you will find that there are other factors in making a sale that you can use in building your sales volume.

 It’s no secret that emotions are involved that move people into action and cause them to make a purchase. WHY WILL THAT CUSTOMER CHOOSE YOU?

 

1.  Make them feel uniquely special.  Exchange pleasantries without going for the hard sell first.  Your attitude must be one of friendly service and interest in them.

 

2.  Offer lots of information.  Consumers look for trustworthy, knowledgeable individuals to educate them on a purchase.  Trust is the most important factor leading to long term relationships and repeat sales.

 

3.  Customers need to be involved in the decision.  Help them by using sensory techniques.  If possible, place the object being considered in their hand.  This not only offers touch, but a sense of ownership, which you should encourage.  Say “your house will smell wonderful with this candle”.  Encourage shoppers to touch and smell the products.

 

4.  Tell the story.  How did you get involved in this craft making?  Stories are a powerful connector which will become “part of your product”, and the buyer will retell those stories when showing their purchase to others.

 

5.  Make realistic promises.  Taking a special order from a customer?  Be honest about the time frame and make sure to follow up.  Contact them after the order to thank them again, and reassure them about their order, but don’t over promise.  Be realistic, and then exceed their expectations!

 

6.  Provide a high level of service.  Show respect for them and for their time by being on time for any appointments you may have set up.  If you are late, call.  Be consistent with a quick response and keep them well-informed.

 

All of these techniques lead to building trust, which of course is why your customers will continue to buy from you and refer others to you.