86% of Americans used coupons in 2006, and saved over $2.6 billion.  People are enthusiastic users of coupons.  We love to search for them, clip them, and redeem them.  Many times customers will try a new company or service because of a coupon.  Coupons are so popular with they make a powerful tool for marketing.

There are pros and cons with using coupons in your window cleaning business.  My experience has shown me that coupons have more pros than cons for a window cleaning business.  Some of the cons are that customers will become use to getting coupons.  They will wait for the next coupon before purchasing.  So, the argument against coupons is that your condition your customers to shop only with coupons.

I use to believe in the arguments against coupons, and avoided using them.  I thought coupons would only attract bargain shoppers, and cheapskates.  I would be forced to cut prices and that would lower profits.  However I changed my mind after using Val-Pak.  Much to my surprise I found out that everyone likes to use coupons.  Some of the customers that called to get their windows cleaned perfectly within profile of what I considered ideal customers.

Here are several tips to use coupons for maximum results.  Make sure you keep the coupon simple.  A lot of small print is not good.  Keep your offers simple… like free screen cleaning with every window cleaning appointment.  Leave off the special circumstances, or qualification otherwise it will kill response.  I also found way to make your current customers angry is to put out a new customers only coupon.  Do you really think it’s a good idea to punish your loyal customers?  If you decide to give a $17 dollar off coupon why would you not let your past customers take advantage of it?  They are reading the same publications your potential customers are reading.  So, let everyone redeem your coupons.

Another quick tip for coupons:  If you are giving a dollar off on your coupons make it an odd number.  Avoid giving $10, 20 or 25 off.  You will get better response by giving $17, 22 or 24 dollars off.  It will stand out, and grab attention.   My personal favorite is $17 dollars off.  I have found it gets good action.

Make sure you give serious attention to coupons in your marketing, and reap the rewards.