Just got this e-mail from Eddie Bauer. It’s a postcard survey format that says:
"As one of our best customers we’d like your input. Help us name our upcoming denim jean fit for women. We’re introducing a new jean fit…and we want your help naming it. Please choose your favorite name [there's a few options to choose from]…Have a better idea? Enter it here."
Ok, honestly, I’m NOT one of their "best customers." But cool, I’ll help them name the jeans. And they let me in on some insider info before the product was launched. I love participating. I bet your customers would like it, too. Not for Eddie Bauer, but for your business, of course. Ask your customers what they think, what they want, what their ideas for your business are… Surveys are a great way – use e-mail, point of sale or even mailed surveys. Use surveys often. Then, with the results in hand, report back to your customers along with the decision, change or outcome affecting your business in some form of e-newsletter, letter or store signage.
Small business marketing tip: Ask your customers about issues both large and small. Take time to list at least five issues on which you could solicit customer input. Then figure out how you’ll ask them.
