Extend Business Using Gamification: 5 Ways

Suppose you've ignored gamification because you believe it's something only a larger company can implement. In that case, you're missing a golden opportunity to boost customer loyalty and sales and better engage your employees. New technologies make it simpler—and more affordable—for small businesses to employ gamification.

Gamification is usually used to drive sales by getting customers to compete with one another (or just themselves) to earn products or services. It also can be used to engage and motivate employees and customers by helping them reach specific goals. The underlying strength is that most people love playing games and competing, so capturing their interest is not difficult.

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If gamification is correct for your small business, consider these advantages:

1. It supports your brick-and-mortar store.

As per U.S. Department of Commerce reports, e-commerce sales in the U.S. for the last half of 2015 were almost $84 billion, an increase of 4.2% from the first quarter. As online sales grow, it will be critical for small businesses with brick-and-mortar locations to ensure customers keep coming in the door. Gamification, for instance, can reward them for "checking in" at a store or afford their chances to win prizes if they appear in person.

2. It drives brand awareness.

When customers reach specific goals or earn rewards, they can share the news with their social networks. This aids create brand awareness and turning more customers into brand ambassadors who will promote your company's products and gamification efforts.

3. You learn more about customers.

You can gather extra information about customers through your gamification processes, like where they're most probably spending their money and their tastes, likes, and dislikes. This supports any small business to become more efficient, as it can use that information to target the right products to its customers. Don't let collecting that information scare you—a growing number of flash storage solutions are more affordable than ever.

4. It engages workers

Gamification has always encouraged salespeople to make more sales. All employees can earn "badges" or points to enhance customer service, cut costs, support other team members, or go beyond their job description. Points can make gift cards or tickets to sporting events. Dedicated social media channels can help employees be motivated by seeing recognition from others.

5. It's fun

Small businesses often can't provide the same perks that Silicon Valley tech companies do, but they can offer the same kind of fun. Millennials particularly desire an enjoyable, vibrant workplace, and putting gamification into play can help alleviate stress, promote a positive environment and build morale.

Lastly, while a study by the Gamification Research Network shows that gamification produces good results, there are still some potential pitfalls that can impair it, involving poor design and implementation.

The lesson is that before establishing any gamification plan, look at how it will fit into your business strategy and workplace culture. Ensure you clearly understand what you want to achieve with it, then target your efforts toward reaching your goals.

 

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