5 Ways to Appreciate Your Customers

The ultimate goal for any small business is not just to land a bunch of customers, but to make those customers loyal and keep them coming back for more. An easy way to do this is by showing appreciation for your clients and making them feel valued. Aside from printing “thank you for your business” on your receipts and saying “thanks” as they walk out the door, there are five simple ways that you can take that appreciation a step further and really impress your customers.

Reach Out – No Strings Attached

Sure, sending out coupons or notices of promotions is helpful to your customers but there’s also benefit in it for you. Consider sending out an occasional mailing or email every once in a while that just says “Thank you” or “We appreciate you”, without any catch. This goes a long way toward building loyalty with your clientele because it’s genuine.

Recognize Your Supporters

Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter have made this step super easy yet highly impactful. Tag a fan in a Facebook post or tweet about a certain customer that really stands out or has done something worth recognizing. It doesn’t even necessarily have to be about your business. For instance, if you see a customer post something about an achievement of theirs, comment on it and congratulate them. The personal interaction will show them you really care about them.

Include Customers in Your Marketing Efforts

Think about ways you can incorporate your customers right into your marketing activity. Maybe it’s including a picture of them (with permission, of course) on your website or in a new ad campaign, or maybe it’s posting testimonials and customer commentary on your site or in your newsletter. The more your customers feel involved in your business, the more loyal they’ll be.

Launch a Customer Rewards Program

By offering your most valued customers special perks, rewards and exclusive opportunities you’ll show them, rather than just tell them, that they’re appreciated. This can be done a number of ways, whether it’s a sign-up club style program or simple punch-cards, but it has a tremendous impact. When customers feel that they benefit from spending money at your establishment, they’re more likely to keep coming back.

Offer Superior Service

It’s simple, really. The better you treat your customers, the more appreciated they’ll feel and the more loyal they’ll be to your business. Aim to deliver the very best possible service to your clients and make it a priority in your business. When customers feel like you’ve gone above and beyond to make sure they’re satisfied, they’re more likely to return the favor in repeat business.

There are plenty of other ways you can express to your customers that you care and appreciate them, but however you choose to do so, the important thing is that you do it. By valuing your clients, you’ll create a strong sense of loyalty and trust, which can translate to referrals and more business so share the love!

Labels: customer service, small business tips