With increasing costs for postage and print consumables, it’s no wonder that so many businesses, especially in the finance and insurance industries, are adopting electronic methods for invoicing and other communications. However, it can sometimes be a difficult task for businesses to convince customers to choose a digital invoice over a hard copy option, despite the advantages. Use these strategies to show your clients the benefits of electronic documents and increase their adoption rates!
Make it fast and easy
One of the biggest roadblocks to having customers accept electronic billing is the process of setting it up and accessing new and old invoices. Make sure that the system you have in place makes that process as simple (and secure) as possible with special consideration given to the demographics you’re appealing to. This may require some investment in your content management system, but will pay off over time as adoption rates increase.
Show demonstrable data security
Many clients avoid electronic documentation due to concerns about the security of their personal data. Be clear about the measures your business takes to protect their information and build trust in them by paying attention and responding to news events involving data breaches both within and outside your industry. Customers will be more inclined to go online when they see the dedication your business puts into protecting their data.
Broadcast the benefits
Acknowledge the environmental aspect of taking your invoices online. Communicate and educate your customers on the benefits of electronic communications on any paper documents sent to them as well as on your website. Remember, more than 500,000 tonnes of paper can be saved every year if every household stopped receiving paper bills.
Use positive reinforcement
Offering an incentive, like a small gift or entry in a draw, is an effective way of increasing adoption. It makes the campaign feel more customer-centric and is simple to implement. Make sure it is an incentive to switch rather than a disincentive, like an additional charge, to stick with paper billing.
Once you implement these strategies, you’ll start to see a gradual increase in adoption. Don’t expect it to happen all at once though and be prepared to measure the success of each and adjust accordingly. Brock Office Automation, your office equipment dealer serving Niagara and Hamilton, can help you implement electronic building and these strategies with our wide range of document management systems.
