Extended social media platforms such as Groupon among many others grant small businesses the opportunity to showcase their products and
services to consumers who are in the market to spend money locally. Shoppers frequenting these sites are not necessarily looking for the perfect deal, but rather looking for an excuse to try something new with little to lose. With over 20 million subscribers averaging at least one purchase per membership, a great deal of opportunity is on the line for small business growth and exposure.

Consumers use these websites as a guide to point them to local products and services they have never used, and a lot of times never even knew existed.

The reality of Groupon offerings can be a nightmare for businesses that are not sufficiently prepared. Common sense is mandatory when
signing your business up for social promotions. It’s obvious that offering amazing bargains as a tactic to lure in consumers also means losing money.
However, despite the upfront financial loss these types of websites serve as an excellent marketing tool for attracting a significant amount of new customers
and can ultimately result in increased revenue. Not to mention, these promotions are an excellent reminder for existing customers to return.

Know your margins, set a sales price where you still make money, remember Groupon takes half the sale price, and set a realistic expiration date for the Groupon to be used.

Benefits from using this type of marketing can continue for months to follow. The initial purchase of the coupon in itself indicates that your business has sparked interest in the consumer. The question is how do you turn these coupon shoppers into loyal customers for years to come? Since you will reach thousands of consumers that have been untouched in the past, it is crucial to ensure your business has enough staff, products, and services available to carryout the demands of your offer.

Know who walks in your door. Aside from greeting your customers upon arrival, get to know them immediately and start building a relationship. Be sure that the greeter knows the parameters of the program offered. Asking customers to fill out contact information sheets is a great way to know where your consumer is coming from- Groupon, referral, returning customer, etc. This tactic is also a great means of communication to keep customers informed of future promotions and newly available products and/or services. Offering incentives such as coupons and free gifts are also great approaches to get customers back in the door; transforming bargain hunters into loyal customers.

Although you should always be providing consistent customer service, it is especially important to make a lasting impression on new and referred customers. As the old adage goes, you only get one shot to make a first impression. It is crucial that the same connection you made in your social media promotion carries through in the consumers shopping experience.
The environment you create for customers can have just as profound of an impact as your newly discovered products and services.

Have the sales person or wait staff share the other products and services you offer so the customer has an opportunity to expand their experience and you have the chance to make more of your money back.

More than anything, ensure your staff does not bad mouth the customers as though they are just looking for a deal or coupon jumping. In these economic times, customers want you to value their business just as well, appreciate them no matter how they came to you and you will earn loyal lifelong customers
long after the coupon expires.

What better time to take advantage of these social media platforms and Connect to NEW Customers.

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