When it comes to marketing, Starbucks has it down pat.
The coffee giant seems to know what its customers want before they do and we’re not just talking about coffee.
From the moment you walk in the door, you’re enveloped in the sights, smells, and sounds of Starbucks. The company has created a brand that is instantly recognizable and beloved by many.
So, how can you replicate the Starbucks approach to market your business?
For starters, create a strong brand identity. Your brand should be more than just a logo or name; it should be an experience that your customers can connect with.
Think about what makes your business unique and how you can communicate that to your target audience. Also, consider how you can make your customer’s journey as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
Provide a great product or service, of course, but also go the extra mile to make sure your customers keep coming back for more.
Here are a few more specific tips:
1. Make it Personal
Starbucks personalizes the coffee-buying experience by writing each customer’s name on their cup. This simple act makes customers feel special and valued, and it only takes a few seconds to do.
You can use this same approach in your business by conducting market research, surveys, and focus groups. This will help you to get to know your target audience on a personal level and figure out what they want and need from your business.
Use this information to create marketing campaigns and content that resonates with your audience. You can also use it to customize the experience you provide for each customer.
2. Build a Community
Starbucks isn’t just in the business of selling coffee—it’s in the business of building community.
One of the best ways they show this is through their support of local and global causes. By aligning themselves with important issues, they create a sense of shared values between the company and its customers.
You can use this same tactic in your business by partnering with or donating to local charities and organizations. You can also get involved with social media campaigns that focus on larger issues.
When you show that you care about more than just making a profit, you’ll build a loyal following of customers who are passionate about your brand.
3. Be Consistent
If you’ve ever been to a Starbucks in another country, then you know that the experience is pretty much exactly the same as it is here in the States. That’s because Starbucks is very intentional about being consistent in every market they enter.
They want their customers to know what they’re getting whenever they walk into one of their cafes, no matter where they are in the world. You can use this same approach in your business by ensuring that every customer has a positive and consistent experience with your brand, no matter how or where they interact with it.
Train your employees well so they can provide excellent service across all channels — in person, on the phone, via email, etc. — and make sure your branding is strong and consistent across all touchpoints, from your website to social media to human interactions and beyond.
Now, of course, Starbucks has been around for a long time and has built up a huge customer base. You might not have the same resources they do, but that doesn’t mean you can’t use their success as inspiration for your own marketing efforts.
If you can remember to make it personal, build community, and be consistent in everything you do, then you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful marketing strategy for your business.
Do you have any other tips to add? Share them in the comments below!
