At our Live Event last week we heard from a brilliant panel of practice owners who used technology, and innovative approaches to creating a dialogue with new clients.
Many of the approaches and ideas were worth sharing – next week we will publish the complete video of the panel for those who missed it.
However, I have provided my top three teachings from the discussion which may prove valuable to you and your business.
To keep your brand top of mind you need to be:
Timely – If you have just met a prospective client, keep the conversation flowing by following up almost immediately after with a summary of what was discussed. Our panel mentioned the use of Smartphone technology and video as an engaging way to provide a short and detailed overview of the meeting. This way the client will receive an email straight after the meeting with a video file message outlining what your follow up process will be – that is called fast turn around and great service. One of our panellists noted that all their client notes are distributed via video, uploaded on a secure Vimeo site – saving time for staff on file notes.
Far reaching – The best chance you have of people thinking of you and your brand is to increase the odds by spreading your brand and content across the various social media platforms. However a blanket approach may not provide the result you crave, as our panel revealed each platform (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) requires a different strategy or approach: Twitter is a great channel for thoughtful, bite sized pieces of information; Facebook is the perfect channel to post some of the business’ social activities; LinkedIn discussion groups provide a unique platform for thought leadership pieces. Finally, your online presence should be reinforced by maintaining an up-to-date company website. Investing in search engine optimisation tools or strategies will provide immediate results in improving your Google ranking – making it easier for potential clients to find you!
An authored expert – The first step is to try your hand at writing articles around your topic of interest or service offering. These articles should highlight your expertise – whether that is SMSF investment strategies or accounting matters. Secondly, develop relationships with local and business press to ensure these articles are published and distributed. This won’t cost you anything other than time. These articles should tie in and beef up your social media strategy.
The powers of technology and content creation in keeping brands top of mind are undeniable. Following these steps should bring more clients through your door all year round – good luck!
Vanessa Stoykov is the founder of No More Practice, and the founder of the parent company, evolution media group in 1999. She has over 20 years’ experience in financial services as both a journalist and business owner. She is an award winning chief executive who is passionate about creating education and communications to help the wealth industry and consumers fulfill their prosperity potential.
