Are you thinking about starting a subscription-based business? If so, you’re not alone. Many companies are moving to a subscription-based model because it offers several advantages. There were 11 million subscribers in the U.S. in 2017, and experts believe this will continue to rise in the coming years. Here are some of the top advantages of a subscription-based business model so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your business.
Recurring Revenue Stream
One of the most significant advantages of a subscription-based business is that it offers a recurring revenue stream. This is opposed to the traditional model of one-time sales, which can be more unpredictable and challenging to forecast. With a regular revenue stream, you can more accurately predict your cash flow and plan your business expenses accordingly. This can give you a significant advantage regarding long-term planning and stability.
Increased Customer Lifetime Value
Another advantage of a subscription-based model is that it usually leads to increased customer lifetime value (CLV). This is because customers who subscribe to your service are typically more loyal and less likely to churn than those who make one-time purchases. As a result, they tend to stick around for longer and spend more money with your business over time. This increased CLV can have a significant impact on your bottom line.
Better Customer Insights
When you move to a subscription-based model, you also gain access to better customer data. This is because subscribers typically provide their contact information when they sign up for your service. This allows you to track their purchase history, demographics, and other essential data points. With this information, you can better understand your customer base and tailor your marketing and product offerings accordingly.
Fewer Costs
Subscription-based businesses might be expensive during their initial start. However, once you start getting loyal customers and improving customer insight, you can modify your business model to reduce costs and make it more sustainable. For example, you could offer a free trial period or cut costs by outsourcing tasks like customer service and marketing. This can help you grow your subscription-based business with less risk over time.
More Opportunities for Upselling and Cross-Selling
A subscription-based business model also provides more opportunities for upselling and cross-selling. For example, let’s say you offer a monthly subscription service that includes access to an online course. Once customers subscribe, you can upsell them on products or services related to the system, such as an ebook, audio course, or one-on-one coaching sessions.
As you can see, there are many advantages to moving to a subscription-based business model. If considering making the switch, consider these benefits as you weigh your options. Additionally, follow these tips to ensure your subscription-based business will succeed.
Telemarketing
Various forms of marketing are essential for subscription-based businesses. Here are a few reasons why:
Lapsed Members
Having lapsed members in a subscription-based business is normal, but finding ways to win them back is essential. One effective way is through telemarketing. Telemarketers can reach out to your lapsed members and encourage them to rejoin your service or upgrade their current membership plan. You can search for a lapsed member telemarketing service to help you out. They can design a custom campaign specifically to get your lapsed members back.
Upselling
In addition to telemarketing lapsed members, you can also use telemarketing for upselling. Upselling involves enticing existing members to upgrade their current subscription plan. For example, if your business offers monthly membership plans, you can provide a special promotion or discount on annual plans to try and get customers to upgrade. It’s more cost-effective than other marketing strategies, such as PPC ads or direct marketing.
Marketing Automation
Another effective way to reach potential customers and encourage sign-ups is through marketing automation. Marketing automation tools allow you to design, execute, and track campaigns that target specific audiences with tailored messaging. Additionally, you can use these tools for remarketing and nurturing campaigns for your existing customers. For example, you can send email blasts that highlight the benefits of upgrading their subscription plan or offer special discounts on upgrades for a limited time.
Chatbots
Lastly, you can also use chatbots for marketing your subscription-based business. Chatbots are automated systems that mimic human conversations via text or voice. You can set up a chatbot on your website and encourage visitors to sign up for a free trial or discount by answering basic questions about their needs and preferences. This allows you to acquire customers more cost-effectively than direct marketing or advertising.
As you can see, these are essential for success in any subscription-based business model. Make sure to incorporate these strategies into your overall strategy if you’re switching to a subscription-based business today.
