Even though museums are often non-profit institutions, some of the strategies of many museums can be useful suggestions for any kind of business.
Engage the customers on a deeper level.
Museums often offer a place to lose one’s self for an afternoon in a subject that is interesting, to learn about a topic that really engages you on a personal and deep level. While your business may not have the same kind of subjects or objects with which to engage the customers, there must be some way for you to make a deeper connection to their lives. You just have to dig to find it.
Spice It Up.
While engaging the customers on a deeper level may bring them in the door the first time, it is the opportunity to be confronted continually with special events, new exhibits, artifacts, and ideas that keeps guests coming back to a museum again and again. In your own business, try to have some component that refreshes regularly. Maybe you try writing a blog, offering lectures, or simply bring new products to the customer’s attention.
Offer a Memento.
Whether or not your business is a retail business, there is something to be said for having a small something for the customer to walk away with, to serve as a memento of their interaction with you. Museums have gift shops in part for this purpose. Consider offering some small memento of your company to customers. Even something as a small as a pen can bring your business back to the customer’s mind.
While you may not be in the same line of business as museums, consider adopting any of these museum-inspired ideas, or checking out your local museum for others.