6 Reasons Your Business Needs Customers, Not ‘Family and Friends’

Small business owners often view their businesses as their babies, and as proud parents, they want their family and friends to be a part of their success stories.

However, this eagerness can sometimes turn into desperation as they pressure their friends and family to become customers. Unfortunately, this approach rarely yields positive results and can damage relationships permanently.

As a small business owner, I’ve also been tempted to pursue this approach, but I’ve learned that wisdom is crucial in such situations. That’s why I have decided to share these tips with you.

1. Your loved ones might not have the money.

Asking your broke cousin to buy your overpriced product might not be the best idea. Please don’t put your loved ones in an uncomfortable position by asking them to spend money they don’t have.

2. You might lose a friend.

Nothing ruins a friendship like a pushy salesperson. They might avoid you altogether if you’re constantly hounding your friends and family to buy from you.

Read also: Work-Life Balance: 5 Proven Tips To Achieve It In Lagos.

3. They might not even like the product.

It doesn’t mean they will love your product just because they love you. They might feel obligated to buy from you but won’t necessarily enjoy what they’ve purchased.

4. It’s just plain awkward.

Imagine going to a family dinner and being pressured to buy something from your aunt’s new business. It’s awkward and uncomfortable, and nobody wants to be in that situation.

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5. You might get a reputation.

If you’re known for pressuring your loved ones to buy from you, you might get a reputation as an annoying salesperson. Nobody wants to be that person.

6. It’s not sustainable.

Your business should be able to stand independently without relying on your friends and family to keep it afloat. You might need to rethink your strategy if you can’t attract customers who aren’t related to you.