Marketing Strategies for Computer Shops
Computer shops supply high-tech equipment like computers, printers, hardware and software to consumers and businesses. Like any business, marketing is an important piece of the puzzle when it comes to increasing sales in the computer industry. However, there are certain strategies that computer businesses can use to bring in more customers.
Newsletters are an effective marketing strategy for computer businesses. Decide if you want to use an email or print newsletter, and begin collecting email addresses or mailing addresses from your customers and leads. Send a weekly newsletter from your shop with technical guidance and sales deals. For example, you might devote one of your newsletters to security-related tips for your customers. The key is to create content that your customers value, allowing you to build a trusting relationship with them so they are more likely to purchase a computer from you when you offer special deals.
Catalogs are also an effective marketing strategy for computer shops. They allow your customers to understand exactly what computer-related products and services your company offers. Collect mailing addresses from your customers and store them in a database. Send your customers a catalog once a month or once per quarter, track which customers buy which products and customize your marketing materials accordingly. For example, if several of your customers routinely purchase computer games from your catalog, develop a special offer on your website and send a targeted mailing to these customers announcing an offer for computer games.
Search engine marketing can help draw more customers to your website. SEM lets you find specific customers searching for computer products you sell. Identify several keywords or products your customers search for online, such as "computers," "best computer deals" or "Michigan computer store." Use Google's free keyword tool to help you develop a list of keywords. Once you have your list, set up an account with Google, Bing or AOL, create an ad and bid on several keywords. If you bid high enough, your ad will appear on the page when someone uses those keywords. You pay the price of your bid only when someone clicks on the ad and visits your website.
Social media marketing uses sites like Facebook and Twitter to market your computer products. Create a Facebook fan page that updates customers about special deals and discounts on your computer products. Develop a contest to get people to "like" your page by offering a free computer accessory to the winner. Announce a special sale or computer tip on Twitter. Use social media websites to stay continually connected with your customers.