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Whether you are working out of your home or have your own retail space, you may be interested in expanding your small business. Although a lot of work will be involved in this process, remember that it can be done with hard work and perseverance. If you are deciding to expand your Gift Basket business but are not sure about ways to go about it, here are some professional and helpful hints that should not be overlooked. 1. Email Address Having an e-mail address these days is almost mandatory in business. It not only looks professional, but it helps your clients to get in touch with you faster. In today's hectic world, few people have time to pick up the phone, and much more prefer the idea of placing an order via e-mail, as it is quick and easy. Remember to promptly respond to clients e-mails with a confirmation of their order or to answer any questions they may have. 2. Business Card
If you've never had the need for business cards before, now should be the time to have some made. The Business Card has many functions. Having a business card looks professional and strengthens the fact that you are a serious business person. Business cards are also a great way to promote your business. Hand them out at ever chance you get. Wherever you are, whomever you are speaking to, casually let them know that you are in the Gift Basket business and give them a business card. Also, give some to friends and family. They can casually mention to people at work that you make baskets and hand out cards if the interest arises. 3. Letterheads & Brochures
If you are looking to expand your business, professionally done letter head, business cards, invoices, envelopes and brochures is a must. If your marketing materials look unprofessional and amateur, your clients will not consider you to be professional. Spending a little extra on small details can really make a big difference in the way people perceive you and your company. 4. Voice Mail
Make sure that your business voice mail has a professional sounding message. Enunciate well, and make sure to include the name of the company, contact name (s), and when the person calling can expect to hear back from you. Other things to include would be your business address if you have a retail store, your e-mail and web-site address if applicable. 5. Website
Having a web site may be a viable option if you wish to reach a large target over the Internet. Over 150 Million people have access to the Internet world wide, and so it is an excellent way to create awareness of your Gift Basket company. Also, having a web-site looks professional and is an informative tool for your customers. 6. Word of Mouth
As a small business, word or mouth through friends and family is essential in gaining customers. However, word of mouth is equally as important to a medium or large sized business if you are considering expanding. The more people that know about your company, the more customers you will have. The more customers you will have, the more referrals you will have, and so forth. 7. Hiring Employees
Take your time when hiring employees. Start slowly, and hire only what is necessary. If you are expanding, you may need an extra helping hand, however, only when you feel the need arise should you hire an assistant or other. 8. Develop a Marketing Plan
Although writing your own marketing plan may sound scary, it actually is not that difficult, and when you have one done, you will be glad you invested the time into it. Sample marketing plans are readily available on the Internet and there are templates that you can follow easily. Things to be included in your marketing plan are things such as target markets, selling propositions, tactics, budgets, tasks, and expected profits and results. A marketing plan is a way to keep yourself organized and will prepare you for what lies ahead. 9. Associations/Tradeshows/Expos
Join and attend various associations like a local chamber of commerce that will allow you to network with potential clients, and to get the buzz around about your new expanding gift basket business. Attending Trade Shows and Craft Shows is also a good idea as you will be able to make contacts with people in your business as well as gain tips and ideas on how to improve the way you do business. 10. Don't Forget Your Clients
Remember that your customers come first, and without them, you would not be in business. Just because you are expanding does not mean that you should have less time for your clients. They are just as, if not more important to you now than ever. It is imperative that superior customer service continue as your business expands. It is through superior customer service that you retain and gain clients. 11. Advertising
Advertising is an important aspect of business expansion. In order to get your company's name well known and recognized, advertising is key. You can advertise your Gift Basket business in local newspapers, on television, in various relevant magazines, yellow pages, direct mail and radio. For further information on the advantages and disadvantages of each of these methods of advertising, please look out for our next article: What are the Best Ways to Advertise Your Gift Basket Company". 12. Open House
Throwing an Open House is another great way to get people aware of your newly expanded business. Invite friends, family, and ask them to bring people along as well. Advertise your open house in your local newspaper, grocery store, through direct mail flyers.
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