Once you start a new business and promote it through various mediums, you will start getting inquiries from interested customers, who are interested in your product or services after seeing your advertisement. However, they are not clear on some issues and they need to know some particular points before making a purchase. It can be anything, pricing, mode of shipment, product details or your business details. At this point you need to do two things. First, congratulate yourself that your promotion and marketing efforts have so far been successful and you are able to exert a pull on your customers. Second, you need to understand that the job is only half done and real test of your skills starts now.
Once the customer comes your way, don't let him slip. If you aren't getting any sales inquiries then probably you need to look into your marketing campaign, but if you are getting tons of sales inquiries and a few sales then you really need to read following instructions. Converting sales leads into actual sales is where most businesses fail. Bear in mind these points to ensure that you make the most of your sales inquiries.
No Delays & Language to use:
You should respond to the interested buyer promptly. Any delay can make him move to some other seller. Check your mail daily to make sure that you don't miss any. Most of the times you can rely on English as far as language is concerned. But sometimes the customer will appreciate the reply in their native language. If it can be arranged then go for it, otherwise stick to the simple English.
Product details:
Some businesses make this mistake of replying with ?one liners? to all the inquiries they get. Although this may seem the right way to just answer what was asked, the idea is to cash in the customer's interest. You can do this by describing the highlights of your product. Do not go into details, stick to the main points only.
Pricing & Payment method:
Normally customers are asking for price quotes in these inquiries. When narrating prices; make sure to explain the payment methods for convenience of your customers. Especially if you are some online business and your customer is a national of some other country. If you are offering discounts on bulk purchases, mention them as well.
Packaging & Shipment:
Explain the packaging arrangements and shipment modes. Make clear your minimum order quantity. If you are offering free shipment, then don't forget to confirm if you can distribute to the location where the customer wants you to deliver. If that area is not included in your offer or it requires some extra charges then state them.
Business Details:
End your message with a short description of your company and its product range. Clearly specify your name and the position in company to facilitate future correspondence.
