It is a challenge for any business today to go beyond surviving and into true success. So what does it take? It defiantly takes more effort than ever before as well as great budgeting and cost savings. But there are a few other ideas out there that can contribute to a successful metalworking shop.
The true secret to success is found in attracting new clients and then in keeping them. Return customers are the bread and butter to your machine shop business, and if you do a good job with them, you can be sure you will be getting a lot of word of mouth referrals. Here are five tips to get you going in the right direction:
1. Make a great impression! Run a tight ship.
You never know when a new customer may come along and visit your shop; so make sure you have the habit of keeping and running a clean and tidy machine shop. From the shop floor, equipment; the office and waiting areas, make a point of keeping them clean and inviting. Make sure that all of your staff members are professional and friendly, as well as knowledgeable and helpful.
2. Take advantage of all marketing avenues.
Do you have a website built? Do you use some kind of Internet marketing strategy? Internet marketing is cheaper than print, TV or radio but just as powerful! Make sure you understand your client base and their needs, as well as how to meet them and communicate with them. Also use traditional methods of marketing since different types of people will be impacted by different types of marketing.
3. Don’t forget the trade shows!
When it comes to machine shops and machining, trade shows are King! One of the fastest ways of creating buzz about your business, products and services is to demonstrate them at trade shows while you are networking. You’d be surprised at the contacts you make at these shows, and face to face conversations go a long way for many potential clients. You also have the opportunity to land larger customers at these events, so be on the lookout for all kinds of opportunities.
4. Customer service will make or break you.
Your service department is what will make or break you. Even if you make a mistake or mess up a project, if you have amazing service, you can always put things right afterwards. Often times the way people make a bad situation right is how they will get great referrals. Go the extra mile with every project, no matter how big or small.
5. Superior hydraulic presses and machinery.
A shop worker is limited by the tools and equipment they have to use. If you have machinery like a
hydraulic press that is limping along on its last leg, you can bet your work will reflect that. Not to mention the time and resources you will waste trying to do a good job with poor tools. Invest in a
high quality shop press, well trained operators and quality tools.
Machinery Values is your North American hydraulic press manufacturer. We design and build both our standard models, as well as highly customized shop presses for a variety of specific applications. Call us today and get the shop press to meet your needs! When quality and price count, call Machinery Values.
