The Best Gifting Idea For People With Wanderlust

Possibly one of the coolest ideas for gifting for people with wanderlust is a Scratch off travel map. In its simplest definition, this is a world map with a top coating that can be scratched off to reveal the places that you have visited.

A scratch-off world map can help you to keep a track of what you need to complete your bucket list and can help to be a journal of your travels. Here’s an interesting page in this regard: https://www.1dea.me. Apart from being a really thoughtful gift, it can be a great display piece in your home that is sure to be an ice-breaking conversation starter when you have friends over.

Types of Scratch off travel maps

  1. The original map

This is the basic style which features a beautifully stylized world map which is up to date and can be viewed when you scratch off the covering. The map can thus be completely personalized to express a unique travel story which can be created with any coin and is continually changing as more areas are revealed. The maps are generally printed on high-quality silk art paper with a gold glossy coating that can be scratched off like a scratch card.

  1. Deluxe version

The deluxe version of the map features even more detailed with the representation of the features on a larger scale with added islands, details and stylistic features. The map features a black background with a copper foil top coat which looks sophisticated and slick. The bright colored map underneath can look absolutely striking against the background and pop even further. If you are looking for a map that shows the land and ocean features and a more intricate map, this is the one for you. It can also help you plan out in details, your next trip when one is over.

  1. Discovery map

If you are an adrenaline junkie with wanderlust, this is the ideal map for you. This map set is a step further on the deluxe version and comes with a beautiful design and a kit that allows you to not only log the details of your travel and document the places you have been to but also really allow you to extensively log the activities that you are planning to do or have partaken in with the help of special stickers. This map is perfect if you want to plan a vacation as well as it shows you an extensive guide of the popular tourist attractions, the capital, and the major cities, the resorts, national parks, lakes, mountains, rivers, deserts etc.

  1. Gourmet scratch map

If you are an avid foodie, this is the ideal map for you. This travel world map can help you discover the local cuisines and the food to try out for the particular place you are traveling to and help you create a gourmet trail throughout the world map.

Thus, with plenty of options to suit everyone’s needs, these scratch maps are some of the best gifts you can give to your friends or family that can be passed on through generations.

Mobile Shades Services In San Diego

We Bring Our Shades Directly To Your Address

Vineyard Blind & Shutter is ahead of the competition when it comes to window coverings in Southern California because of our mobile services. We bring our showroom directly to your address so that you can view our products in the natural lighting of your own home before you decide to make your purchase. What better way to guarantee that you are making the right decision than to view your potential purchase in the very place you plan to install it?

When it comes to shades, our mobile shades services in San Diego guarantee quality products. Some of our most popular shades include:

  • Roman Shades
  • Roller Shades
  • Pleated Shades
  • Woven Wood Shades
  • Honeycomb Shades
  • Horizontal Shades
  • Vertical Shades
  • Averted Shades

Vineyard Blind & Shutter endeavors to provide our customers with high-quality shades at the prices they can afford. Our mobile shades services in San Diego will guarantee that all of the right measurements are taken down so that your custom shades will fit in any window in which you plant to install them. In fact, we provide:

  • Free Measuring
  • Free Estimates
  • Free Installation

With our help, and with so many different materials, styles, and colors for you to choose from, we guarantee that you will find something that goes perfectly with your home’s unique style and layout. Choosing quality window coverings is one of the key factors involved in creating the right atmosphere and style in your home, and our mobile shades services in San Diego will help you make the right choice the first time, without any unnecessary stress or headaches.

San Diego shades are a great way of providing privacy and light control, but one of the most important reasons for choosing our San Diego mobile shades services is the potential they have to save you energy. By keeping your home cool during the summer and warm during the winter, shades have the ability to save you money on your energy bills year round.

Many interior shades are highly reflective, keeping heat out of your home. This is extremely valuable in the San Diego heat, where energy costs from air conditioning can be quite high. In fact, many window coverings can reduce solar heat gain by over 40%. Shades that are bright in color will reflect light, and shades that are dark in color will absorb it. Throughout the year, you can switch from one shade to the other in order to maximize your energy savings from one season to another.

Blinds are also helpful for protecting your furniture from harmful UV rays, which will damage your furniture over time. Sunlight can ruin the texture, color, and integrity of your furniture, as well as your paintings and other objects. With the correct use, our San Diego shades will help your furniture stay beautiful and high in quality for a much longer time.

Our mobile shades services in San Diego offers everything our customers need for an excellent product, perfect customization, and quality installation. We also seek to provide fast delivery services. Once you have chosen the perfect product for your home, and all of the measurements are in place, we are committed to getting your delivery out fast, in as little as three to five business days.

If you compare us to any of the independent dealers or large home improvement centers in Southern California, you will see that we offer the same quality name-brand shades at lower prices. But lower prices does not mean an inferior product. Our shades are high-quality products that last, and our measurement and installation services put you in control.

At Vineyard Blind & Shutter, we know how to make your house feel more like a home, which means providing the kinds of products that set a beautiful atmosphere and a cozy environment. Our shades aren’t just for homes, either. Many businesses have improved from our mobile shades services in San Diego, which have helped to improve the atmosphere of the business and make customers feel more at home.

From their ability to increase your home’s beauty to their energy-saving qualities, our San Diego blinds can help make all the difference. If you need window coverings in San Diego, contact us today!

Ways to Protect Bitcoin from getting it Lost or Stolen

Over the years money changed its forms from gold coins, a paper bill to credit and many more. Most individuals are aware of physical forms of money but of late, many digital currencies are being introduced to the market. The year 2009 saw the inception of first digital currency called Bitcoin. This concept was not backed by any central bank or government; it runs through computer code. Over the years the popularity of Bitcoins gained momentum, and in present-day time many enthusiasts from around the world are using it on a regular basis. Bitcoin is a whole new concept which is slowly grabbing the attention of millions from around the world.

Growing use

Bitcoin was introduced in 2009, and since then it came a long way. The whole concept changed the face of the financial world, and many seem to be excited about this concept. With passing time Bitcoin transactions are increasing all around the globe and interestingly many top companies or groups are accepting it as a mode of payment. In few years’ time, the price of Bitcoin increased considerably, and it makes a good investment too. Every day there are countless numbers of transactions taking place globally, and an increasing number of individuals are accepting this new currency. Bitcoins don’t exist in physical form and hence storing of this digital currency needs to be safe and secure.

Ensure safe and secure storing of Bitcoins

Bitcoin transactions are increasing all around the globe. Government or central banks do not regulate this concept. Hence it is important to be diligent about storing it security and safely. Unlike physical currencies, Bitcoin is stored in a “digital wallet.” These wallets can be web-based or hardware based. Users can have these wallets on mobile devices, tablets, computer desktops or laptop. Many enthusiasts are concerned about the safety of these digital wallets. The answer depends on how the user is managing the wallet.

Each of these wallets contains private keys, and without them, the owner can’t access the digital currency. The only danger here is if the individual loses the private key accidentally or if it’s stolen. Without private keys, you won’t see the bitcoins again. Apart from that, private keys can also be lost because of computer malfunctions, the physical loss of your computer or smartphone where the wallet resides, or even by hacking. Here are some of the ways to protect Bitcoin:

  • The offline mode of securing Bitcoin is called cold storage. These storage wallets are not connected to the internet and hence they are less susceptible to hacking. Accessing these wallets can be bit inconvenient, however, it is the most secure way to store Bitcoin. Simply keep the necessary amount in a wallet based on your daily trading purposes. Some of the popular cold storage methods are hardware wallets, USB drive, and paper wallets.
  • Another good way to protect your digital currency is by backing up your entire wallet often. In case there are any computer malfunctions, history of backups can help you recover the digital currency from the wallet. Always remember to backup your wallet.dat files and accordingly store the backup in different secure locations such as hard drive, USB, and CDs. Apart from this also make sure you set a strong password for the backup.
  • Keeping software up to date can help you immensely. Often, wallets that are working on non-updated Bitcoin software are targeted by hackers. The latest version of a digital wallet tool will have all the necessary security systems needed, thereby keeping your digital currencies safe and secure. Consistently updating your computer operating system, tools, and mobile devices to make digital currencies safer.
  • Encryption helps in adding a layer of security to a file, folder or message and it can only be unlocked by an individual knowing the right key. Encryption means using a strong password for accessing your digital wallet. Always use a combination of numbers, capital letters and special characters to make it strong.
  • The concept of multi-signature is also a good option, and it will keep your digital currencies safe and secure.

In the earlier days, there were numerous incidents of theft, hacking and fraud with Bitcoins. But with time, and as its popularity grows, there are many additional safety measures being developed which makes it the best online currency in the present day.

Pros And Cons Of Buying Lotto 6/49 Tickets Online

Online lotto ticket purchases are becoming more and more prevalent and more common as persons find it more interesting and easier to use. There are so many lotto games to purchase online including the Lotto 6/49 games. This game is played in Canada and is a nationwide game that eligible gamblers can play and rapidly increase their chances of becoming a millionaire every week. The 6/49 games are rather easy to play and generally starts at a jackpot of $5 million dollars and continues to grow whenever there is no winner.

With this lotto game, Canadians have a great chance of winning something even if they have not won the major games. For this game, there is normally a “follow up” game with a guaranteed $1 million dollar winning prize. This does not require all players of the major game to buy another ticket as they are automatically entered in the guaranteed games for their chance to win. This second game is random so anyone still stands a lucky chance at striking gold.

The 6/49 game is rather straightforward in the number selection has players are required to choose six numbers from 1 to 49. They can have random numbers drawn for them or they can choose their own personal numbers. This game can be done online for all those Canadians who are seeking a more convenient way to purchase tickets. When they do, if they win even as much as 2 of the 6 numbers, they get the chance at a free play to increase their chances even more. The ticket purchase ranges from as low as $3, though many consider the stakes to be high. But when purchasing the tickets online, there are some advantages and disadvantages to doing so.

Advantages

  • You don’t have to travel miles in order to spend on a $3 ticket which really cot more gas to the location. You can do it from the comfort of your home, office or anywhere you are.
  • The cost of the ticket is cheap for such a huge win. This means you won’t have to consider spending a large amount from your card without the surety of being the selected winner.
  • It’s a little harder for persons to keep track of you in terms of not knowing you directly went to purchase. It provides a safe and discreet option for purchase.

Disadvantages

  • The online world is not always safe as there are unscrupulous persons waiting to steal your information. Also, persons sometimes tend to fail to research and end up making purchases from the wrong website. This is more dangerous than anyone can imagine.
  • Though the fee is small to purchase, the odds of winning are not so “good”. Because it is an open game and many persons are playing, the chances of winning lie 1 in MILLIONS.

Canadians can always buy Lotto 6/49 tickets online because, at the end of the day, a small fee to become a millionaire is not so bad. Lottosend is an also a recommended and reliable place to consider.

How to play in an online? Tips for beginners

Virtual casinos flooded the Internet, and an increasing number of people decide to try to play online casinos – very much attract the chance to win fabulous amounts of money. However, not all of this is obtained, because it is necessary to learn how to win, and it is not as simple as many people think.

In order not to lose money, you need to follow certain rules. That’s what experienced players advise.

At the very beginning, it is worth choosing the site where there is an advantageous bonus system. Bonuses are offered by many casinos, however, your benefit depends not only on how many of them, how many from yourself. After all, those bonuses that fit one people are useless for others.

In addition, reliable online casino like Lapalingo offers to start the game without the initial investment of money and increase the initial deposit. This is also an important point, as it allows you to save on deposits.

However, after registering on a virtual game resource, be sure to learn the rules – for this you need to carefully read and remember the rules of the game on this resource, and then it is desirable to return to this page from time to time.

If you are curious to play, but try to find out about the site that you selected as much as possible. For this, you can just search the Internet, and go to a forum and chat with other players. In this case, you also need to be able to distinguish truthful information from false information, which can simply be a means of advertising a particular resource.

On the forums, you can get valuable recommendations from experienced players and try to learn the essence of the strategy of a game. You can start with https://www.lapalingo.com/en, it is reliable and numerous bonuses on gameplay and ensure fast secure transaction system.

However, it is also very important to cut out from the very beginning exactly the amount that you are not afraid to lose, because, most likely, you will still have to say goodbye, at least for minimal money. In no case do not exceed this allocated to the game amount, otherwise, you risk parting with everything that you have. Of course, the wolves are afraid – in the forest do not go, and in general – why then play, if you adjust yourself to losing?

That’s it not necessary to prepare yourself for the loss! You need to go ahead, but also remember that you are still learning to play, and do not forget about the rules of the game. It just happens that it tightens.

This happened! You won! But do not rush to bet again with this money, as, most likely, the online casino will not allow you to win again. Especially since you are still a beginner. And if you won twice in a row – it’s worth stopping the game altogether, putting your excitement away into a deep pocket.

You found not one that arranged you in all the parameters of the online casino, but several. In no case, it is not recommended to play at once in two, as your attention will be divided into two parts.

Important! If you lose twice in a row, immediately leave the game resource!

Beam Wallet Tops List of Retail Software With AED 25 Promo Code ZBFUSUV

So, you have decided to set up a retail business. It is undoubtedly a good idea because it has become managing a business has become quite easy for people these days. Gone are the days when you had to do everything yourself because now there are a horde of software applications, such as Beam Wallet, WaspBarCode, etc. that help them in performing various tasks like inventory management, accounting and marketing. There is no longer any need for you to make hand written receipts, hand printed flyers or do physical inventory counts. You can streamline and speed up all your functions with the help of these software.

The problem is that there are lots of options available in every category and this can make it difficult for you to choose one. Which one do you use? Some of the top software for retail businesses are mentioned here:

Shop with Beam Wallet

As a retailer, you want to make it easy for your clients to shop from your retail business. This is where software like Beam Wallet comes in. This mobile app marks the transition of the payment industry. Just like credit cards, this is a payment option that enables your customers to make payments through an app. They don’t have to carry cards or cash as they can just use the app for paying for the things they buy. This compatibility will bring in more customers as they will enjoy the convenience and your job will also be made easier. Once you have installed the Beam Wallet App, simply use the Beam Wallet promo code ZBFUSUV and get 25 AED right away to spend on any store of your liking. The app has now become a new trend in UAE and shoppers can be seen using Beam app at many stores, such as Carrefour, Cold Stone, Costa Coffe and many more.

Point of Sale: WaspBarCode

It is recommended for a retail business to purchase a POS system and this is where Waspbarcode comes in. It comprises of key features such as barcode creation for all inventory, real-time functionality, managing maximum and minimum levels for each item of inventory, helping in supplier management, auditing and cycle counts, creating email purchase orders and more. Asset tracking is also simplified with waspbarcode as it enables you to do a search by lot, serial number, date and pallet. You can be aware of your inventory levels to know when you are running low and manage your valuable assets.

Marketing: Art Explosion Publisher Pro

Lots of retailers make use of coupons, flyers, brochures, business cards and other printed marketing materials. You can make your printable items with company images and logos by using software such as Art Explosion Publisher Pro. You can also make use of it for creating stationery, simple web pages, newsletters, greeting cards, CD labels and plenty of other items, which aid your marketing efforts.

Accounting: Peachtree and Quickbooks

You need a good accounting program for managing your books and finances in the best possible way. There are programs such as Peachtree and Quickbooks that can come in really handy for keeping track of payroll, accounts receivable as well as invoicing. You will be able to make payments on a timely basis and these programs also send you notifications to know when payments are due to be made or collected. Hence, your task becomes very easy and you can also reduce the risk of fraud or theft.

Issues You Need to Deal With Before Choosing a Printer Leasing Deal

The idea that you can just lease a printer instead of buying one is good for your business. You can now use a high-quality printer for various purposes without spending a lot of money. If you are done using the printer or if the big event is over, you can return it.

This is way cheaper than having documents printed elsewhere. It is even cheaper than investing in a new high-quality printer that you will only use temporarily. Before you rent a printer, here are some issues that you need to consider.

Cost

You need to know the cost of the printer if bought. This will give you an idea of whether or not it is better for you to opt for printer leasing. If the monthly fees are too high and the new printer is not that expensive, the latter might be the more practical choice. However, this does not happen all the time. Usually, it is still more practical to just rent the printer over a certain period of time. The point is that you research first about the price of the equipment before agreeing to anything.

Duration of the contract

You will be bound to the leasing company for a given period of time. Usually, if you are renting the equipment over a longer period, you will be asked to pay less each month. However, you also need to consider if you will really need the printer that long. If you need it for just a few months, there is no point in getting a long-term contract.

Other services

Aside from leasing the printer, you should also be provided with maintenance services. This is something that printer leasing companies can provide that you can’t get if you buy a new printer. Choosing the latter means you will be responsible for the printer and need to figure out a way to fix it in case something goes wrong. There are also leasing companies that provide free supplies along with the printer.

Consider owning the printer

After some time, you will know if you really are comfortable with the printer. You can grab the opportunity to own it. The company might offer you the printer for a cheaper amount since you have already started paying for it via leasing it over a certain period of time. If you will need to use the printer for more tasks, it is best if you grab the chance to purchase it, if the price is right.

Searching for the best printer leasing Oxford offers is easy. There are several companies that can offer this kind of service at a reasonable cost. Take time to compare the options before signing any agreement.

Image via freedigitalphotos.net (zirconicusso)

The Essentials for a Really Effective Website for Your Business

Designing an effective website can be quite a challenge, but this doesn’t mean it can’t be done. There are many effective websites out there, and they all have certain aspects in common. If you are planning to build your own website or are thinking of revamping the current one you have, here are the essentials for a really effective website for your business.

Be clear

As soon as they see your site, visitors should know right away what you do and what you offer. They should know that you are a business based in a particular area, and what products or services you provide. It’s fatal to leave your visitors guessing – be clear and bold about what your business offers, so visitors won’t be confused but encouraged to stay and learn more about your business.

Make your contact information stand out

You may already know that web users have the attention span of a two-year-old. You have to give them the information they are looking for right away – a few seconds of perusing your website should already give visitors important information, especially when it comes to your contact info. Your business contact info, such as your address, telephone number, and even a Google map, should take centre-stage and should be readily found throughout your website. Or, if you want to be more subtle, you have the option to place your phone number at the top or bottom of every webpage. Your potential customers shouldn’t have to search for your contact details – it should be presented to them on a silver platter at every turn.

A fast site is a necessity

Did you know that the previous rule of eight seconds – the time it takes before website visitors wait for a website to load – has now been reduced to as little as three seconds? If you test your homepage and find that the loading time takes more than three seconds, it may be a good idea to have it redesigned – make your code simpler, or give your servers an upgrade.

Leverage it with apps and tools

A great website, as confirmed by web design Oxford specialists from Xist2, will offer more than just basic information about your business – it will also offer apps and tools which customers can find handy and convenient. Online cost calculators are brilliant tools for finance-related businesses, and apps which can help users out in some way are an excellent option as well.

Another thing good websites have is free website features for visitors who register. Features such as free recipes, free small business guides, and more make first-time visitors willing to become registered users.  If you make it a point to update your features, then your customers will keep coming back.

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

Multi-Room (Zone) Music Streaming Technology from VSSL

VSSL is a revolutionary new audio streaming amplifier that is truly one of a kind. In fact, there is presently no technology available that is as easy to use and accessible as the VSSL home music streaming system, which allows you to stream music to any room in your home using any application that is available for your devices. With VSSL, you can choose to play different music for different rooms in your home. Our multi-room music streaming technology allows you to pick reggae for the back patio, jazz in the kitchen, rock in the basement, and pop in the living room, all streamed to each individual room simultaneously. The possibilities are endless.

Simply put, you can control your various audio streaming zones from your VSSL home music streaming system, which connects directly to your Wifi router and thus can be accessed through any of your preferred applications.

With VSSL’s unique multi-room music streaming technology, you will get:

  • The ability to connect directly to VSSL using music apps that are native to your device, allowing you to access VSSL and play your music directly to your specified audio zones.
  • The ability to control your audio zones with any mobile device or tablet.
  • Convenient application for installation and fine-tuned control.
  • Easily establish party zones, allowing a one-time party zone setup which makes for an incredibly simple music streaming experience with zero complication.
  • Automation integration: If you have an existing home automation system, VSSL will simply integrate directly into your system without any unnecessary complications. Our drivers expose capabilities and various controls in order to allow VSSL to function as a matrixed audio distributor.
  • The ability to use voice control with Google Home or Amazon Alexa, making for an even more convenient music streaming experience.

Stream Music From Your Favorite Music App Or Service To Any Room In Your Room

VSSL is a form of disruptive technology, meaning you are not simply limited to the VSSL app or system itself to stream your music. You can use native streaming to play music in any room of your home or business. Simply select your desired music for your desired room via your preferred app on your Mac, PC, mobile device, or tablet, which can connect to any of your audio zones through:

  • iTunes
  • Google Play
  • Pandora
  • Apple Music
  • Spotify
  • AirPlay
  • Googlecast
  • Spotify Connect
  • Deezer
  • Tunein
  • Rhapsody
  • Slacker
  • Tidal
  • Audible

And more!

This means there are no required third party control apps. Music streaming with VSSL is fast, convenient, and direct, and new services are immediately available, so there is no need to have to wait for updates in your system. VSSL’s multi-room music streaming technology is designed with thorough detail in order to make it incredibly reliable, smooth, and consistent.

Easy To Install – Easy To Use – Easy To Enjoy

The only wiring involved with this home music streaming system is when it comes to your VSSL speakers. Everything else is completely wireless. Once your VSSL speakers are installed and up and running, everything else is just a button or voice command away. VSSL’s amps have been designed to work with in-wall, in-ceiling, and other forms of passive multi-room speakers. VSSL’s speaker outputs are 8 and 4 ohms stable, and include auto protection circuitry in order to keep your music playing smoothly and uninterrupted.

VSSL’s multi-room music streaming device is made with only the highest grade components available in the industry. We incorporate highly powerful and efficient circuitry and supply 50 watts per channel. The music quality you will get from VSSL is clear and high in quality. Our multi-room music streaming technology allows you to fine tune your system via EQ, zone assigning, and master volume control. All of this gives you ultimate control over your audio streaming to any room on your property, and allows you to fully customize your listening experience.

Meet The Powerful VSSL A6 & A3 Multi-Zone Music Streaming Units

Our home music streaming technology includes two different versions. The A6 version of VSSL gives you the ability to stream your audio for up to 6 different rooms in your home or business. This includes the ability to use 6 different devices for 6 different zones all at the same time, from any application in the world! With the A6 version, you can also group various zones together for either multi room or whole home listening.

The A6 tech specifics include:

  • Zones: 6
  • Channels: 12
  • Output Power: 50 watts/ch @ 8/4 ohms
  • Inputs: Network, (2) bus line level, (6) local line level
  • Wireless Inputs: 6 + 1 marco party
  • Outputs: (2) selectable line level
  • EQ: 7-band parametric adjustable
  • S/N Ratio: >101 db
  • Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz
  • Operating Voltage: 115-230 VAC 60/50 Hz auto switch
  • Rack Space: 2U
  • Dimensions No Feet: 17″ W x 3.46″ H x 14″ D
  • Dimensions With Feet: 17″ W x 4.7″ H x 14″ D
  • Shipping Weight: 17.5 lbs

The A3 version of VSSL is the same as the A6 version, but allows independent streaming and power for up to 3 different audio streaming zones for those who do not require such a wide range of audio streaming locations.

VSSL Is Perfect For Homes And Businesses

Private residences and businesses would greatly benefit from VSSL in many ways. Our multi-room music streaming technology will make the perfect asset to a residence in which house parties are a regular occurrence, or a vacation home where many people are often coming to visit. VSSL allows you to liven up any party or family get-together with your own personal soundtrack, and gives you the ability to set the mood for different areas of your home via different music options.

Needless to say, this would make a smart investment for businesses such as restaurants, spas, physical fitness centers, or any other location in which music plays a major role. VSSL’s multi-room music streaming abilities can also be utilized for non-music audio requirements, such as live, online speech broadcasting or informative speech to various rooms within churches, office spaces, museums, conference centers, and other organizations.

VSSL is available for both home distributors and end users. We are proud to offer our audio streaming services to private companies who would benefit from carrying our revolutionary new product. And our product is of course available to any end user who may be interested in incorporating our unique multi-room audio streaming system to their home, office, or private business.

VSSL gives you an audio streaming experience like you’ve never heard before. We are unrivaled in our ability to provide our customers with convenient, high quality audio technology that spans multiple rooms and locations. VSSL allows our customers an easy and convenient way of using complex and innovative technology. Whether you are seeking multi-room audio for a private residence, or for a commercial setting, VSSL has everything you need for a fully comprehensive, high quality audio streaming experience.

Customer Service Tips To Help Build Your Business

Customer retention, which is often measured in terms of repeat purchases, plays a vital role in the profitability of most businesses. When a business excels at customer retention, it’s better positioned to achieve long-term success, and it will have a much greater competitive advantage over its competitors.

So, how can your business master the art of customer retention?

Well, there are a number of contributing factors that influence customer retention, one of the most effective ways is perhaps offering superior customer service. In essence, customer service is meant to create a very positive experience for the customer, and in turn improve customer loyalty and eventually, long-term customer retention.

Superior customer service is such a worthwhile investment, and we have put together 5 essential customer service tips to help get your business up and running, and maintain high customer retention.

Building Personal Relationships

Actively working to have a personal touch in your business is very important for customer retention. If you work with just a few customers, ensure that you interact personally with each one of them, and find out if there are things you can do to help them out.

For those businesses with a lot of customers, you can set an autoresponder system that replies to them whenever they purchase from you or join in your community as a prospect. Treat prospects differently than buyers, but more importantly, stay in touch with both.

For example, with our moving company, we always take an active interest in the personal relationship with our customers. They get to know their moving crew and that always helps the jobs go smoother, with much less stress for everyone.

Respond to Every Complaint

Social media is the cornerstone of this modern world, and closely monitoring what’s being said about your business online is vital. While it’s very easy to get carried away by a petulant customer and brushing them off completely, it can be costly for your business.

What you want to do is take charge and be polite with them, as you listen intently to their problem or concerns. With this approach, you will have a calming effect on the upset customer, and in most cases, they will reason with you and leave knowing that they can always return and do business with you again.

Remember that a personal touch can help to resolve an issue that can result in a client removing a poor review for your business!

Ask Your Customers!

Asking your customers exactly what they are looking for in your business, what concerns they might have, and how they want it delivered is probably the easiest approach to retaining customers. You can ask them via an online survey, a printed survey, via email, over the phone, or in person. But regardless of the method, asking them is crucial.

You’d be surprised how detailed the responses can get, and sometimes, they will save you time, effort, and money you could have used on market research.

Consider performing an informal focus group or focused discussion with your customers. This way, you will have the opportunity to identify their collective wants or needs, and you can then reward them with discounts on their next purchase of something that highlights your sincere appreciation of their time.

Always Listen to Your Customers

Be sure to pay careful attention to everything your customers are talking about, and identify any difficulties they may be experiencing. How much do you hate repeating yourself? Well, the customer isn’t any different. Make sure that you respond to them quickly and when suitable, but don’t interrupt them. Butting in can show them that you are not paying attention to them.

This might seem like a simple thing to do, but it’s not what many businesses do. Our natural instinct might be jumping right in with a solution when it comes to mind. Some business owners want to ignore a problem – hoping it will go away. However, you might not have fully understood the problem if you’re not paying attention.

Waiting it out and carefully listening to the issues allows you to have a better understanding of the context and situation of the customer. Plus, they will see that you are paying attention.

Provide Solutions

Nowadays, customers are very savvy, and will sense a sale pitch from miles away. Although they love buying, they hate to be told what, how, and when to do so. Instead, let your approach be providing them with effective solutions. This shows that you sincerely care about their needs.

Let them know that you are not after their wallet, but you want to collaborate with them in helping them what they want in such a way that both of you benefit. Such an approach works nearly all the time, and is considered the secret sauce to high customer retention.

In a world where small businesses have to constantly compete with the big businesses and corporations, superior customer service will help you to stand out from the crowd. With the tips discussed above, you are at a much better position to continue improving your customer service, retaining your customers and getting great referrals for new customers.

Don’t forget that customers appreciate working with businesses that care about their needs.