Life is full of small unexpected moments; a quick hug from a child, flowers from your partner, or a friend calling to check in on you. Moments that are not costly but do say you are appreciated. In turn, we find ways to reciprocate, to acknowledge the people in our personal world.
Showing customers/clients similar appreciation is also essential for your current and future business. I have had business owners say, 'You've been coming here a long time,' then move on to whatever they were doing. Leaving me thinking, "Yes, you have had my ongoing business, but I've never received any form of a thank you or small discount from you". Customers who feel valued are more likely to provide you with repeat business and recommendations.
Like old friends, customer loyalty is gold. When a brand floats genuine appreciation towards its customers, it starts building better, more human relationships with them. So remember: Don't overthink it. Little, everyday things can have lasting impact.
- Zendesk Blog, June 7, 2022
Ways to thank your regular customers don't have to be expensive. For example, my tea store always adds something to my order; a small package of my favourites or a new tea to try. This makes me, as the customer, feel like I am more than just part of their income stream.
Here are some suggestions and I have asterisked items that will also work well for your male clientele.
Top Branded Gifts:
*Tote bags
*Small calendar
*Fridge magnet
*Sticky notes or a notepad
*Water or sports bottles
*Stress balls
*Coffee mug for travel
*Ceramic mugs – don't forget people often post photographs of themselves on social media with a mug of coffee or tea in hand!
Non-branded Gifts:
*Soaps/candle
*Chocolate/small package of gourmet cookies
*Special tea/coffee
*Gift card – for another local business
*Small potted plant – flowering or cactus
Printed Gifts:
*Loyalty program card
*Discount certificate for a future purchase
For those of us with a one-on-one clientele, the consultation format allows us to know people differently, so something more personal can be considered. For example, a book, bottle of wine, favourite coffee beans, gift box of preserves, attractive journal or notebook or even something fun for their dog can be sent by mail or handed over at the end of an in-person meeting.
As well as celebratory days, take advantage of your company's anniversary, fun/silly days (who knew February 5 was World Nutella Day!) and days attached to your specific industry; the options are numerous.
Coming up, you have February 14 – Valentine's Day, March 8 – International Women's Day, and March 17 – St Patrick's Day; each one provides an opportunity to show your customers some love.
Jill Crossland is a Business & Marketing Consultant with over twenty years of business experience. She is the owner of Jill Crossland Consulting & editor of Entrepreneurial-Life Magazine. From business strategizing to marketing plans and social media, Jill knows how to put the pieces in place for her clients.
jill@jbcrossland.com | 403 901 6147