13 Strategic Ways Businesses Can Use Coupon Codes

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13 Strategic Ways Businesses Can Use Coupon Codes

Scott Gerber is the founder of Young Entrepreneur Council, a non-profit that promotes youth entrepreneurship. The YEC recenty launched #StartupLab, a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs grow businesses via live video chats.

The online coupon seems like a simple, straightforward way to increase conversions, but that's not necessarily the case. Rock-bottom discounts (see: Groupon) can actually have a negative effect on a booming web business.

Instead of using coupon codes to spur sales at checkout, savvy business owners are finding ways to leverage discounts to track customers, build affiliate relationships and more.

A panel of successful young entrepreneurs shares the strategies that are actually working. Here's what they had to say.

1. Retargeting and Cart Abandonment Strategies

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2. Distribute Through Partners

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3. Track and Measure ROI

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4. Reward Loyal Facebook Fans

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5. Track Revenue Sources at Events

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6. Encourage Action

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7. Customize and Learn

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8. Use Coupon Codes in a Crowded Market

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9. Discount Coupon Codes Close Sales

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10. Ask and Ye Shall Receive

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11. Perform Acts of Kindness

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12. Consider Customer Acquisition Cost

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13. Collaborate With Affiliates

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Thumbnail photo courtesy of Flickr, jridgewayphotography

BONUS: YouTube's 20 Most-Viewed Ads of 2012

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