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want to keep in touch with. Unless they object, plan a series of points when you will send or do something that keeps you very much in their mind. It should be at a frequency they’d like and the content you use, from the bank you are building, should be very relevant to their interests/situation. Remember to select the medium, content and style that they are most likely to interact with - use contact with them to find out their preferences and build a dialogue. If you are planning to do email communications, do ensure you have their approval as the forthcoming General Data Protection Regulation changes will require you to be able to prove they actively opted into your communication. Lots of businesses in- vest considerable re- sources into content marketing and activi- ties to boost their rep- utation. This is mon- ey well spent when it supports the objec- tives of the business and in particular sales and customer reten- tion. Similarly, be seen to support others - respond quickly to comments on social media, be seen to be encouraging and helping people as this will encourage others to do the same for you. Summary Lots of businesses invest considerable resources into content marketing and activities to boost their reputation. This is money well spent when it supports the objectives of the business and in particular sales and customer retention. Be visible by being active Do ensure then your reputation-building activities are clearly guided by: your target market and their interests, issues and needs; your business objectives - growth, Be sure then to encourage the advocates sales, customer and staff retention; and happy customers of your business to and your strengths in relation to your rate, rank and endorse you. Acknowledge competition. and make the most of these - feature them on your website, in your social media, case studies, sales proposals, and sales collateral. Dr. Clifford J. Ferguson is the Quite often it’s easier to grasp the strengths Managing Partner of Rainmakers, of a business from the way its customers and Chairman of Glad’s House. describe them. It is getting harder to keep businesses visible in crowded marketplace. A good reputation helps and can take real shape in the volume of positive reviews and recommendations. So make sure your reputation is visible in the words of your customers, the experience people gain in dealing with you, and the help, support and knowledge you give to your target audience. Overall, what you want to convey is that your business is active, it understands the market it supports and it is helping that market. This positive mindset will shine out and draw others to you. You can commune with him on this or related matters via email at: Cliff. Ferguson@rainmakers.uk.com, or visit their website: Rainmakers. uk.com. www.sboresearch.co.ke WE COVER IN GREAT DETAIL To get an in-depth detail on the retailers -what Brands they are stocking, stock levels, sale movements, all round retail census and audits plus everything in between - get in touch with us. We’ve got retail covered in great detail. t: +254 20 214 56 68, 210 1916/7 e: research@sboresearch.co.ke SBO Research @SBOResearch