Reviving the Personal Touch in the Age of Digital Shopping
The Evolution of Personal Touch in Shopping
In the bygone era, high street shopping was a markedly different experience. The allure wasn't merely the tangible products on the shelves but the human touch that accompanied them. Shop assistants were more than just employees; they were advisors, guides, and sometimes even friends. Their recommendations and assistance made the shopping experience personal, tailored, and memorable.
From the 1990s onward, there was an evident shift. Over the last two decades, the high street charm gave way to the convenience of the internet. Virtual storefronts took precedence over brick-and-mortar establishments. Shopping was now at our fingertips, anytime, anywhere. While the freedom to shop in one's pajamas at 2 am is undeniably thrilling, somewhere, the personalised shopping experience got buried beneath the digital avalanche.
The Shift Back to Personal Touch
Yet, as they say, "Change is the only constant." In the saturated realm of the internet, the pendulum is swinging back. People, in their quest for authenticity and genuine interactions, are now migrating to platforms like Facebook and TikTok. These channels, once merely platforms for entertainment or socialising, have become potent marketplaces. But what’s even more interesting is how we engage with businesses on these platforms. Mobile phones, once just devices for calling, have transformed into lifelines for shopping, messaging, and more.
Why is Personal Touch Important?
Recent statistics highlight this evolution further. A striking 42% of customers prefer live chats when shopping or seeking information. In contrast, the reliance on email has dwindled to 23%, and social media or forums garner a mere 16%. Yet, the craving for the human element remains robust. A whopping 88% of individuals prefer conversing with a live agent over navigating through impersonal phone menus. The surge in preferences for callbacks from sales agents is a testament to this trend.
How to Create a Personal Touch
In this digital age, how can businesses recreate the magic of high street shopping? The answer lies in amalgamating the convenience of technology with the warmth of human interaction. Here are some strategies to infuse personal touch into your business:
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Live Interactions: Utilise live chat options on your website to engage with customers in real-time. This not only helps in resolving queries promptly but also builds a connection.
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Social Media Engagement: Be active on social media platforms. Respond to comments, direct messages, and mentions. Show that there is a human behind the brand who cares.
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Personalised Recommendations: Use data analytics to understand customer preferences and provide personalised product recommendations.
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Follow-Up Calls: Implement callback options for customers who prefer to talk to a live agent rather than navigate through phone menus.
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Seamless Payments: Ensure that the payment process is smooth and secure across all channels. Consider solutions like SOTpay to facilitate seamless transactions.
What is the Meaning of Personal Touches?
Personal touches are small, thoughtful actions that show customers they are valued and understood. This could be anything from a thank you note to personalised product recommendations based on previous purchases. In essence, it's about making the customer feel special and appreciated.
Examples of Personal Touch in Marketing
- Notes: Sending a thank-you note after a purchase.
- Personalised Emails: Crafting emails that address the customer by name and recommend products based on their browsing history.
- Loyalty Programs: Offering exclusive deals and discounts to repeat customers.
- Custom Packaging: Using unique and personalised packaging to make the unboxing experience memorable.
The Impact of Touch on Perception
Touch has a profound impact on perception. In the context of marketing, incorporating tactile elements can enhance the customer experience. For example, luxury brands often use high-quality materials in their packaging to create a sense of exclusivity and quality.
Example of Sense of Touch Marketing
A good example of touch marketing is the use of textured business cards. When a potential client feels the texture of a well-designed card, it leaves a lasting impression, making the brand more memorable.
Conclusion
In the evolving landscape of digital shopping, the personal touch remains an invaluable asset. Businesses that successfully blend technology with human interaction will not only attract but also retain customers. Embrace solutions like SOTpay to ensure seamless transactions and never forget the charm of the past while navigating the future.
After all, in today’s world, every chat, every tweet, and every interaction is an opportunity to connect and make a difference.
For a more seamless integration of advanced payment solutions into your business strategy, schedule a demo of SOTpay through the link below and start planning your future payment strategy today.
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