“The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” Vince Lombardi

It is important to keep in mind that to achieve success in the hospitality industry, you must put in the work to grow your results which will ensure you achieve the desired outcome. As we strive to rebuild our industry in a post-pandemic world, we need to act like it is day one on the job or opening day of our new business. We need to bring the same optimism, energy, and enthusiasm we had then. The two areas to focus on to accomplish this are:

1. Increasing business from your current customers

2. Attracting new customers

In this message, we are going to address the challenge of attracting new customers. The following are 11 methods that will help you grow the number of customers that you serve:

1. Ask for Referrals from

1. • Current customers
   • Industry partners
   • Friends and family
   • Referral Groups

2. Re-engage with Past Customers

1. • Reach back out to those you have worked with in the past and see if you can again be of service to them or if they know of someone who can benefit from your services.

3. Networking (virtual and in-person)

1. • Industry – be active in your industry
   • Community – get involved in a leadership role in your community

4. Newsletter/Blog

1. • Keep in touch with your potential customers monthly through a newsletter or blog that adds value to them.

5. Volunteering

1. • Get involved in your community and organizations that you are passionate about. It will enable you to give back and meet key community leaders.

6. Speaking Engagements

1. • Share your expertise and knowledge to be seen as the expert in your industry

7. Partnering with Vendors

1. • Your vendor partners have relationships with the clients you would like to work with. It makes good sense to develop relationships with these professionals.

8. Direct Mail

1. • How many pieces of regular mail do you get each week? You will stand out…do not give up on regular mail to promote your business as it does still work.

9. Social Media
   • Make sure you understand the best platforms to promote your product or service (i.e., LinkedIn, Twitter).
10. Advertising

1. • Do your homework and strategically place your advertising directed to those who would have a need for your service (i.e., industry publications).

11. Cold calling

1. • This is often the most stressful and least successful of your methods. However, it is an important part of your overall strategy as you need to continue to reach out to potential new clients.

We need to make certain that we have a clear vision working both hard and smart to implement our game plan. Please read the quote one more time: “The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary.” Success is right around the corner for all of us. My team is putting these methods into action and we are seeing the results. Let’s get to work and grab the rewards!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougbaarman/

Blog: https://hospitalitylifestyles.com/

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