How Do I Increase My Gift Basket Business Success?
Teri asks:
“I’m just starting my gift basket business and am concerned about succeeding. The economy is making me nervous. What must I do to ensure my long-term success?”
There have been many changes in this industry due to worldwide economic changes. Wholesalers and retailers have closed their doors, but this situation isn’t different than in other industries, and many more gift basket business participants are still in business than have left.
Your best defense to ensure your longevity is to:
1. Create a vision for your business right now, at the beginning, realizing that it’s a business and not a hobby. You’ll put long hours into your success, so be prepared.
2. Understand your target market. Know who they are, what problems they face, and how you’ll position your business to be part of the solution.
3. Invest in your education, both about the gift basket industry and your customers‘ industries. Know these areas inside and out, as this will help you see opportunities that competitors don’t realize until it’s too late.
You have the ability to thrive in any economy, including this one, and many designers are doing just that. Follow what I’ve explained above, and you’ll join them in increasing your success every day.
How Do I Market My Gift Baskets?
Edith asks:
“How do I market my gift baskets? I can design but am not sure how to sell.”
There are three parts to my answer.
1. When you originally decided to start a gift basket business, who was your target customer? In other words, what made you decide to get into this business?
Whoever was sharing their gift-finding problem with you is a good start to recognizing your target market.
2. Where’s the best place to reach your market (the people who will buy from you)? Is it in magazines, at networking events, or through social media?
The people in your target market will share their activities with you so that your marketing messages reach them. Your customers are probably similar to those served by other gift basket designers, and you’ll find their solutions in the book 101 Ways to Market Your Gift Baskets.
3. Take advantage of appointments set up with independent professionals such as accountants and educators.
After speaking with them about the main reason for the meeting, you can turn the tables at the end by talking about your business and how your gift baskets benefit their lifestyles.
Related Questions:
Getting Corporate Clients to Order
How to Market Gift Baskets for Men
How Do I Get Customers for My Home-Based Business?
