Being Bahama

Master Trader - Part III

You can have multiple factories, vendors, crafting tools, tons of high quality resources, adequate storage, a great brand name, a well researched price list and a fancy droid with a crafting station installed…but without customers, you’re not a trader. 

So how do you go about getting customers?  There’s many different strategies and which will work for you depends on what line of business you’re in, what kind of business you run and even your personality.  But here’s a few good places to start:

• Put your tag up.  Choose a tag that clearly describes the trade you’re in.  Make it easy for folks to see what you do and they’ll be more likely to approach you about your products.
• Walk.  Now that you’ve got your tag up give them time to read it.  When you’re in a public place walk, don’t run.
• Go out and meet people.  People like to buy from someone who’s familiar.  Get out of the shop and do some crafting in the cantina.  Chat with folks at the bank. Talking with folks about general things can open the door to discuss what your business can do for them.
• Be polite.  Always. Even the Dark Lord himself doesn’t want to do business with someone who’s lacking in social graces.  Any time you’re out in public your potential customers are watching you.  Act like you care.
• Follow up.  If you have a positive conversation with someone about your business don’t forget to follow up!  Send them an email telling them you enjoyed meeting or talking with them… and don’t forget to include the waypoint to your vendor.  If someone asks for a product you can’t yet make, take down the name and item.  Email them when you learn to make it.  Even if they’ve already bought the item elsewhere chances are good that they, or someone they know, will want it in the future.
• Give it away.  Freebies are a great way to get your brand name out there while also improving your reputation with potential customers.  It doesn’t have to be big and fancy.  Choose something you can afford to give away.

If you put your focus on your customers (not your level) you’re sure to become a successful trader