One of the biggest benefits of franchise ownership is brand recognition. Since your business’s brand is already established, you aren’t starting from scratch when it comes to marketing and advertising. In addition, your franchisor likely has national advertising campaigns in place, as well as marketing materials that you can use to promote your individual business.
But this doesn’t mean that you can just sit back and wait for customers or clients to come to you! In order for your business to be successful, you’ll have to do some micro marketing within your local area and put in the work to attract new business. So here is how to market your business as a franchise owner — without breaking any of the rules or guidelines of your franchise contract.
Website
Today’s customers expect businesses to have a functional, informative, user-friendly website. So if your company doesn’t have a web presence, you’re missing out on a huge source of business. Consumers want the ability to check out your offerings, verify your hours and location, read reviews, and do their own research on your company before they ever contact you.
However, website regulations vary by franchise, so you’ll need to check with your franchisor first to see how much freedom you’re allowed. Some franchise companies have a single website with pages for each location, while others allow each franchise owner to set up their own individual website for their store.
Direct Mail
Just like bell bottom jeans, direct mail is making a comeback. In this digital age, where everything is done online, physical mail now stands out and can help you get your name out there to a wider range of potential customers.
Your franchisor may already have mailers or postcards available for you to use, or you may have the option to create your own. Just make sure you stay within the franchise design guidelines when it comes to color schemes, logos, and other brand-specific elements.
Events/Promotions
Community events are also a great way to get your business in front of your potential customers. And you don’t have to put in the work or funds to hold your own private event. Booths or tables at a local convention, fair, or entertainment event are often available for an affordable fee. But to make the biggest impact, be sure to include a giveaway, contest, or some other incentive that draws a crowd and sets your business apart.
Social Media
An active social media presence is vital for businesses, especially if you are not able to have an independent website for your franchise location. Social media is often used as the first point of contact for questions, concerns, complaints, and kudos, and it’s where potential customers go first to check your business’s reviews.
Franchisors typically allow their franchisees quite a bit of freedom when it comes to social media, so it’s a great way to develop a local brand identity and reputation for your business. Just a few simple posts a week can help keep your business in front of your audience and generate new revenue.
Email Campaigns
If you don’t already have a process in place to collect your customers’ email address, create one now! While this is simple for businesses that have some type of intake form that clients need to fill out, it can be a bit more challenging for establishments like retail stores.
Social media is a great tool for collecting contact information, and you can run contests or giveaways that require participants to sign up using their email addresses. And don’t forget to speak with your franchisor about their lead generation programs. They will likely be able to provide you with information on interested clients in your area.
Feedback/Reviews
Word-of-mouth advertising remains a critical aspect of business success, but positive online reviews and feedback are also essential. So encourage your customers to leave a review on your social media pages or website. However, it’s important to check your reviews regularly for any potential issues. Disgruntled former employees and demanding customers may use review platforms to air their grievances and maliciously tear down your business. Keep your cool and respond politely, stating the facts of the situation, to reduce the impact of their negative reviews.
As a franchise owner, there are plenty of tools you can use to grow your client base and generate more revenue. And if you are still looking for your perfect franchise opportunity, Right Hand Senior Care would love to hear from you. We help our franchisees make a real difference in their communities, while also building a stable income for themselves.
So what are you waiting for? Get in touch today and change your future with a Right Hand Senior Care franchise.