(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
China’s consumer market is vast and lucrative, but overseas brands often struggle to connect with local buyers without the right approach. As an advertising agency with over 10 years of experience in China, we’ve seen firsthand how focusing on the customer can unlock massive sales potential. This article dives into proven sales tactics that prioritize Chinese consumers, helping global brands establish a foothold and thrive.
1. Building Trust Through Transparency
1.1 Clear Product Information
Chinese consumers value transparency, so ensure your product listings on platforms like JD.com include detailed specs, origin stories, and certifications. For example, a skincare brand can highlight cruelty-free certifications to appeal to ethical buyers.
1.2 Authentic Customer Reviews
Encourage genuine reviews and showcase them prominently on your e-commerce store. Responding to feedback publicly shows you care about consumer opinions, fostering trust and encouraging purchases.
2. Tailored Customer Support
2.1 Multilingual Support
Offer customer service in Mandarin via WeChat or phone to address queries promptly. A dedicated support team can resolve issues like sizing concerns for apparel, reducing returns and boosting satisfaction.
2.2 Proactive Communication
Send automated updates on shipping and delivery through WeChat mini-programs. Keeping customers informed at every step builds confidence in your brand, especially for first-time buyers in China.
3. Leveraging Social Proof
3.1 KOL Endorsements
Partner with trusted influencers on RED to showcase your product in action. A KOL reviewing a fitness supplement can demonstrate its benefits, making it more relatable to Chinese consumers.
3.2 User-Generated Content
Encourage customers to share their experiences on Douyin using a branded hashtag. Featuring this content in your campaigns can create a sense of community, driving interest and sales among new buyers.
4. Data-Driven Product Adjustments
4.1 Consumer Feedback Analysis
Use feedback from Tmall reviews to identify product improvements, such as adjusting flavors or packaging sizes. This shows consumers you’re listening, which can enhance brand loyalty over time.
4.2 A/B Testing Campaigns
Run A/B tests on WeChat ads to determine which messages resonate most, like price discounts versus quality claims. Data from these tests can refine your sales approach, maximizing conversions.
Case Study: A French Wine Brand’s Turnaround in China
A French wine brand faced low sales in China due to a lack of consumer connection. They shifted focus by using WeChat to gather feedback, revealing that Chinese buyers preferred sweeter wines. They introduced a new sweet wine variant, promoted it through a Lunar New Year campaign with a popular RED influencer, and offered live customer support. Sales soared by 200% during the festival period, showcasing the impact of listening to consumers.
Conclusion
Breaking into China’s market demands a sales approach that prioritizes transparency, tailored support, social proof, and data-driven adjustments. By focusing on what Chinese consumers value, overseas brands can build lasting relationships and achieve impressive sales growth.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
