Five technologies to attract and retain customers

Keeping customers engaged is increasingly difficult. The internet is full of distractions – think 'Game of Thrones' recaps, BuzzFeed quizzes and cat videos – so it’s important to stay ahead of the game with a fresh, appealing customer-engagement strategy that speaks to your demographic. Here are five technologies that can help you do just that.

1. Comprehensive CRM platform

Building relationships with customers is vital to business, and one of the easiest ways to keep track of what people are up to is with a customer relationship management (CRM) tool that takes into account multiple platforms and social data.

Tools like Nimble and WORKetc combine project management, billing, sales and support all on one platform, eliminating the need to switch between different systems. They also allow you to input existing contacts and social networks in one place, making it easier to keep track of developing customer relationships.

2. Engaging and informative website

An intuitive, smartly designed website is key to attracting new customers. First impressions last – draw people in and chances are you’ll win their loyalty for good. There is no shortage of free, online website tools that allow everyone from individuals to businesses to make quick and easy-to-use websites. Tools like Squarespace and Wix have a huge range of preset templates to choose from and dozens of customisation options to suit any business. Both also include hosting, analytics and 24-hour support.

Don’t forget to include an easy-to-use sales platform either. Once you’ve engaged your potential customers, you want to convert that interest into a sale.

3. Savvy social media

It’s safe to say that businesses that have the hang of social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Tumblr are doing much better than those still stuck in the days of handwritten letters and pamphlets through the letterbox. A social media presence is vital to keeping in touch with customers in a way that benefits them – it’s quick, easy and, if used correctly, can exponentially increase brand loyalty.

Does your business have a voice? Does its tone reflect the demographic you’re trying to reach? Customers appreciate being treated as individuals. Give customers the chance to reach out to you via social media – encourage them to ask questions and send feedback. And make sure someone is always there to reply.

4. Data analytics

Data-analysis tools turn raw data into easily digestible information about how customers engage with your business. There are a number of tools that focus on small business. Some, like Quantum Leap Buzz, are particularly adept at analysing social media data. Others, like Google’s Analytics Apps Gallery, contain a number of smaller tools that can be purchased individually. Each produce simple data reports to suit a variety of different businesses.

5. Document-management systems

The hard work doesn’t stop once a customer is on board – you need to ensure their experience with you is as smooth and seamless as possible. Document-management systems allow you to combine digital and paper documents in the one place, so you can quickly provide customers with the correct information and documentation when they need it.

Consumers now have access to more information about companies and their products than ever before. Without the correct technology in place, can you guarantee you have the tools to attract and keep them coming back to you?