Leo owns a small online furniture store that he’s built from scratch, specialising in unique, high-quality pieces that bring a cosy feel to any home. He’s put his heart into his business, curating every item carefully, but he knows he’s facing a challenge. People visit his website, spend time looking at pieces, but then leave without buying. He often finds himself wondering, “What if there was a way to remind those people about my shop after they leave?”
The Aha! Moment with Retargeting Ads
One evening, while browsing the internet, Leo notices ads popping up for a camera he’d looked at a few days earlier. “I’d almost forgotten about that,” he thinks. Then it clicks: retargeting! This is the nudge his own potential customers might need. If retargeting works on him, it might work wonders for his business.
He decides to try it himself. He doesn’t want to overwhelm his customers with too many ads, but he knows a gentle reminder here and there could bring them back to his site. After all, many of his customers are likely just waiting for the right moment to make a purchase.
Setting Up Retargeting with His Customers in Mind
Leo begins by selecting specific items that were popular on his site, particularly those customers frequently viewed but didn’t buy. He focuses on retargeting ads for a handful of beautiful armchairs, coffee tables, and handmade rugs he knows people love. Instead of going for a generic ad, he crafts each one with care, almost as if he’s speaking directly to those who showed interest before.
He keeps his ads simple and inviting. His message is clear: “Loved this piece? It’s still here, ready to be the perfect addition to your home.” Rather than offering a discount or pushing hard for a sale, he makes the ads feel like a friendly reminder, encouraging customers to revisit and imagine those pieces in their spaces.
The Results: Building Familiarity and Trust
Within a few weeks, Leo notices a change. His website traffic is picking up, with familiar faces returning to browse his pieces again. Some of them are even making purchases this time around. He realises it’s not just about reminding people of his shop; it’s about building familiarity. His customers begin to feel like they know his brand. The consistent, friendly reminders create a sense of trust, and customers feel comfortable returning, knowing they’ll find items they love.
Leo also discovers that some customers, seeing the retargeted ads, now view his store as their “go-to” place for unique furniture. The ads aren’t simply reminding them to buy; they’re positioning his store as a trusted option when they’re ready to decorate.
Why Retargeting Ads Matter for Small Businesses
For Leo, retargeting isn’t just about increasing sales; it’s a way to reconnect with potential customers who already showed interest. It’s like inviting them back to his store in a friendly, personalised way. He’s able to build a rapport, even in a digital setting, making customers feel valued without overwhelming them.
The beauty of retargeting ads is their gentle persistence. They don’t demand attention—they simply remind customers of what they loved. For small business owners like Leo, this strategy isn’t about using big budgets or aggressive tactics; it’s about being present, making the shopping journey easier and more memorable.
Retargeting as a Consistent Growth Strategy
Leo’s experience highlights how retargeting ads can help small businesses grow in a way that feels natural and connected. His ads are a simple reminder that his store is there, ready when customers are. Retargeting has become a consistent strategy for him—not because it forces a sale, but because it nurtures a lasting relationship.
Ready to create retargeting ads that keep customers coming back? Connect with Mark A Preston, an experienced Customer Growth Coach & Speaker, to learn how retargeting can become a natural part of your growth strategy. Mark’s insights can help you build a trusted presence with your customers, encouraging them to return and engage with your brand. Reach out today to make retargeting work for you.
