So you want to expand your business operations but you’re not ready to relocate your company or move into a bigger space?
Perhaps you simply cannot afford this type of major move. On the other hand, you may just want to explore effective ways to expand without bearing the financial burdens associated with relocation.
Either way, your business can benefit greatly by applying the six points outlined below that will help you expand your business even on a global scale without having to change your mailing address:
Create and update your business toolbox
Regardless of your market or industry, every business must have a “business toolbox.”
According to Forbes, this toolbox includes a collection of strategic plans and resources that will help you to stay on track with running and expanding your business over time. For instance, this toolbox should include your business and marketing plans to form a foundation upon which you and your team can build.
These strategic plans will also help you to avoid certain pitfalls and setbacks that may emerge as you try to expand your operations. In addition, you should include any type of software and hardware equipment within this toolbox that will help you to keep your business running smoothly day after day.
Cast a wider net within your target market
One of the best ways you can expand your business without relocating it is to cast a wider net when searching for new sales and service opportunities.
Take the time to study, dissect and closely examine your target market and — more specifically — your target customer. The demographics of your target market will change over time – especially with the progressive advancements of technology and the digital age.
It is vital for your business operations to withstand the test of time by searching for new opportunities that allow you to capitalize on your customer’s needs. According to Entrepreneur, this includes a detailed analysis of foreign markets, direct competitors and other related industries. You may surprise yourself by how many new doors of opportunity you will unlock with a fresh perspective of your customer base.
Use automation wisely to enhance efficiency
Another effective way to expand your business is to boost operational efficiency with a little help from automation. You may not be able to freeze the hands of time, but you can improve the way that you use it.
Automation allows you to save a considerable amount of time without compromising your productivity. For instance, using an online punchout catalogue, you can automate the distribution of purchase orders and invoices to your customers. This tool can really come in handy with existing customers and repeat business.
Automation will lighten the overall load placed on the shoulders of your staff. This lighter load will allow you and your team to reinvest the valuable commodity of saved time into more profitable aspects of your business.
Make good use of a customer management system
In addition to researching high-quality automation tools and systems, you should also consider using a customer management system. Tracking transactions manually is extremely difficult – especially when you are focused on expanding your operations and making better use of your valued time.
That’s why using a customer management system — such as a cloud-based solution — is a viable option to consider. In addition to helping with the sales and marketing aspect of your business, this type of customer-centric system can also help with your accounting and finance.
Before you commit to a specific tool, take time to research the various options available. Your objective is to find a customer management system that will relieve your burden – not build it.
Expand your online presence with social media
You may have your company website up and running, but what about social media? How is the online presence of your company within those platforms?
It is true that you do not need to take advantage of all forms of social media. The key is to find out which platforms your customers use the most and which ones cater to the needs of your business. For instance, a computer manufacturer or IT equipment vendor may benefit from a Facebook page but have absolutely no use for Snapchat.
Instead of diving into all platforms, it is imperative for you to narrow your focus onto the options that your business needs the most to connect with your customers. This will also help you to expand the outreach of your business by exposing your company to a global audience.
Use Google wisely to market your business
It is highly recommended for you to use Google wisely as a marketing tool for your business.
It costs a substantial amount of money to relocate your business. However, without a Google My Business Page, a lot of your target customers may not even know your company exists at all.
The best part is that small businesses can use this business tool for free. All you need to do is claim the free business page and then use it to your advantage.
In addition to making it easier for your business to pop up with relevant local Google searches, you can also use this page to maintain customer engagement. For instance, you are provided with an online dashboard that allows you to keep track of overall exposure. You can also post messages regularly (like with other social media platforms) and even respond to customer testimonials and reviews that are posted on Google.
Expanding your business operations doesn’t have to involve relocating your business or opening more offices in new locations. Using the above methods, you can reach more customers and ensure that your business grows at the rate it deserves.
About the author
Samantha Wallace is a veteran tech writer and editor who has worked in several eCommerce companies. She has been covering technology online for over five years. She is the Content Advocate for Greenwingtechnology.com.