Converting a lead into a client is one of the most important things for a business owner to know. In this article, we will go over the tools available to help set up your business to receive the best leads for you and how to convert those leads into clients!
First, know your business:
Knowing how to answer client questions is key and the best way to learn is to know the Dumpling App in and out. Practice doing things like creating orders, adding items that are not listed in the app, requesting a store that is not shown in the app.
Some examples of questions you should be comfortable answering are:
Can I shop at multiple stores?
Can I shop at a store that is not shown within the app?
How can I add an item that I cannot find in the app?
Why are the prices in the app not matching the in-store pricing?
Second, set up your business to receive the leads you want:
Set your delivery zip codes to help ensure that you only get clients within the zip codes you are willing to serve
Be clear and concise about the description of your delivery zone so that potential clients know right away if you service their area.
Consider saying something like “Greater _ metro area” or “East Valley” when setting the delivery area name.
This can help you avoid cancellations by making sure that your delivery area reflects how far you are willing to travel for the price that you have set.
Set your schedule appropriately and consider using the schedule buffers within the app so that clients cannot place last-minute orders.
You can find more information on schedule buffers here.
If you are not available for orders, make sure your schedule reflects this so that clients do not place orders for those times/days.
Use the Closed schedule to mark days you will not be open.
If you are needing to take a break, whether it’s due to another job, school, etc then consider temporarily removing yourself from the marketplace by clicking Webpage & Marketing in the Business Tab of the Boss App and then unchecking the box that says “Zipcode Search”.
Set your pricing to encompass the zip codes you listed without the need to add on additional fees.
Keeping pricing simple and transparent helps to build trust with clients.
Be aware that burying pricing details within your about me section, or having to add on unexpected fees, can lead to confusion for clients, which may prevent them from placing orders or canceling after an order is placed.
To avoid needing to add on fees, think about your cost per order (gas, fees, etc) when setting up your initial pricing.
Finally, work those leads!
As you get new client leads, you will receive an in-app push notification and a text message with the client's information.
When you get a lead we always recommend sending a welcome message via in-app chat. If the lead has not responded or placed an order within a week of you welcoming them, then send a follow-up message.
Remember, Pro Subscription benefits include the ability to set automatic chat notifications to be sent when a client first connects with you, and if they have not placed an order within 14 days. Click here to learn more.
We recommend reaching out a total of 3 times (including the welcome message) spaced about a week apart. A few different ways you can reach out to them include:
Your weekly hours
Store deals/sales
Follow up to their food preference survey
Discount Offers to encourage their first order
Anything you may think may help draw in clients to order
Treating leads well can benefit your business because they can become a source for reviews and referrals. For ideas of how to best communicate with clients throughout an order, check out our Guidebook post here.
Whenever possible use your direct URL instead of having clients you’ve spoken to find you through the marketplace.
While converting leads into repeat customers is the goal, If you ever have a lead you feel uncomfortable serving, such as a potentially fraudulent client or someone who is being abusive towards you, remember to reach out to Dumpling and let us know.