There are a million different reasons that people use systems and tools to help their business. In our experience – given the type of business you are - you’re probably looking for something that helps you make as much money as possible, keeps your existing customers coming back and spending more, and does it in a way that doesn’t require lots of digital skill, time, or investment. A lot of our customers don’t even care how we make that happen!

Hint: Really focus on your core objective when choosing a tool. If your goal is to boost footfall for example, then make sure you really understand how any solution will help you do so.

Compared to traditional marketing alternatives like flyers, posters, billboards, and stamp cards, most digital tools can seem complicated. The right one for you, however, will help you make lots more money in less time. The key is to find a tool that’s powerful, designed for the specific environment you operate in (i.e. in a physical premises with in-person customers), delivers direct sales, but is as simple to use and as cost-effective as possible.

Even better if it can be used without the need for any digital equipment during the day when you’re likely to be on the floor. Tools with all the bells and whistles may seem great at first, but if they take your team months to get the hang of, that’s a waste of time that we know you don’t have!

Hint: Get a demo so you can see it in action. 

Any sort of digital tool can be quite daunting if you’ve not used it before, regardless of how easy it might be to use. We know you work at a million miles a minute - so look for a tool that offers you dedicated support whenever you need it and doesn’t leave you waiting days for an email response.

Hint: Ask what kind of support is provided to help you get set up, trained, and to help you succeed.

There is a big difference between cheap and cost-effective, so keep that in mind. You want a system that isn’t too expensive for you, and that will get you the best return on your investment i.e. the biggest difference between what you spend and what you make as a result.

Hint: Look out for discounted trials and deals, and steer clear of anything that makes you commit for long periods until you know it works. That will remove a lot of the risk.

Not all tools were created equal when it comes to their usefulness. That’s particularly important for you because the majority of digital tools today were created with businesses that work online in mind, rather than those with a physical shopfront and/or who primarily serve their customers in-person. Make sure you’re choosing a tool that was designed for you.

Hint: If you’re not sure, ask how the system or solution would work for your specific type of business during a demo.