CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines are in high demand right now because of their accuracy, speed, and energy efficiency. So, starting a new CNC machine shop can be a lucrative business venture. However, like with any business, landing your first customer can be a significant challenge that can take weeks or even months.
If you’re looking for ways to minimize this time period, we have just the tips for you. These tips have been tested and found to be most effective by successful CNC machine shop owners.
How to Land Your First Customer for a CNC Machine Shop?
Landing the first customer for your CNC machine business is a major milestone because the sale helps you gain recognition in the market. Plus, the customer helps you identify any shortcomings in your products that you need to refine.
If you’re not strategic, you may end up among the 20.4% of businesses that fail in their first year. To prevent this, here’s how to get the first customer for your CNC machine shop:
Previous Employer
One of the best strategies to land a first customer is contacting your previous employer. Many skip this option because they're afraid they’ll be rejected, but that is far from the truth. Your former employer is the person who has observed your work ethic and potential very well.
This means they have a pre-established trust in you and your abilities, which they will extend to your business. That is exactly why you’ll find them more willing to invest in your CNC machine shop than others.
Small Manufacturers in the Vicinity Without CNC
As a new CNC machine shop owner, you may think reaching out to large companies will get you your first customer. However, these companies will most likely already have vendors that they trust. And even if they don’t, the likelihood of them purchasing from you without a reference is very low.
The real trick is to get in touch with small manufacturers near you who do not use CNC machines. Explain to them how your machines can significantly improve their operational efficiency. We also recommend offering them discounts as an incentive.
Indeed
Indeed, it is one of the top job-finding platforms in the world. But what if we tell you it’s also great for scouting your first customer? All you have to do is find businesses that are hiring employees in your niche. This will help you make a list of businesses that may be interested in your CNC machines.
Once you’ve got a list, contact them one by one and sell your pitch to them. You might face a lot of rejections, but this strategy has no cost. So it’s definitely worth a try.
Existing Industry Contacts
If you’ve been in the field for a long time as an employee, chances are you have made many network connections over the years. Now that you’re starting your own business, it’s only fair to use them to your advantage.
So, go through all the business cards you’ve collected and your phone and email contact lists. Then, shortlist contacts who may be interested in your CNC machines or can help you generate leads. Contact each one with a personalized pitch and also let them know you’d appreciate a reference or collaboration.
Solid Website
If you’re planning a marketing strategy to attract a first customer, having an SEO-optimized website is a big plus. A plain website that works and looks great won’t take you so far if no one is visiting it. Modifying it with SEO strategies will help increase your website’s rank on Google when people search for something relevant.
The high rank will increase the online visibility of your CNC machine shop. This, in turn, will improve the chances of someone clicking the URL. Once on your site, they’ll explore your products and may even reach out for more information.
Offer Free Prototype or Sample
As a new CNC machine shop, it’s natural for potential customers to be hesitant to purchase from you. That’s why it’s always a good idea to win their trust through a free prototype or sample created by your machines. This helps them see that they’re signing up for high-quality products at an affordable rate compared to the market.
You may not prefer this idea because it’ll cost you money, but it will increase your chances of landing a first customer. Then, as more people buy from you, the revenue you’ll earn will make the sample costs negligible.
Use Online Marketplace Sites in Downtime
At the beginning of your business, you’re going to be facing a lot of downtime. A lot of this will be spent marketing your products, but we also recommend registering for online marketplaces. These include websites like eBay, Amazon, etc., where you can set up an online shop and upload your products.
This method will allow your brand to be exposed to customers all over the country, which is not always possible with a physical shop. You can also register on Xometry, which will put you in direct contact with clients.
Conclusion
Starting a CNC business can be incredibly rewarding, but you might struggle to get that first customer. The key is to not restrict yourself to a single marketing technique. Instead, use a combination of the ones we’ve listed above.
So, set up an SEO-optimized website and register for an online marketplace. Contact all your connections, reach out to employers on Indeed, and approach small manufacturers. Make sure you have some samples and prototypes to show them the quality of your machines and win their trust.
FAQs
Why is it so hard to land your first customer?
New businesses find it harder to attract their first customers because they don’t have any sales history. Other factors that may contribute to this are poor marketing, lack of online visibility, and an inability to stand out from competitors.
How long does getting the first customer usually take?
This time period can vary for each business depending on their marketing strategies. Generally, though, it takes anywhere from a few days to several months for a CNC machine shop.
How do you convince someone to buy your machine?
The best way to convince someone to give your business a shot is to have your samples and pitch prepared beforehand. This should include a short summary of how your machines work and what benefits they offer over competitors.
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