Most business owners think that big marketing campaigns are the best way to bring more business in; however, there is a little secret that can beat any marketing campaign: customer appreciation. Customer appreciation is the best way to maintain clients and bring in new ones. The best part is that it can be done at a very low cost.
Why is Customer Appreciation Important?
Think about your relationships with businesses. Which ones are your favorites? Why are they your favorites? Probably because they take an interest in you, or they strive to make you happy. That’s exactly what customer appreciation is about.
As businesses scale, they typically stop focusing on making individuals happy and they focus on numbers. When this happens they end up losing business because they don’t care about the people anymore. In fact, 68% of customers leave a business because they believe the business doesn’t care about them. That is a huge percentage!
In order to keep those people, and have them refer you more business, you have to show your customers that while you’re growing, you still care about the individual.
If you want to stay ahead of your competition, you need to focus on customer satisfaction.
Benefits of Customer Appreciation
Increase Market Value
In a day and age where you can easily be replaced by an online option, you have to show people why they should choose you. Companies who put customers first often have outstanding reviews. Those reviews are what drive more business to you.
Increase Customer Loyalty
Customer loyalty cannot over stated. Loyal customers not only bring you a steady stream of business, but they are likely to recommend your business to family and friends. And a recommendation from someone you trust is more powerful than any other type of marketing.
Increase Profits
Showing your customers that you appreciate them encourages them to buy from you time and again. Which is great for you for two reasons. First, it’s six to seven times cheaper to sell to a repeat customer than to acquire a new one. Second, once they trust you they’re more likely to spend more money at your business.
Customer Appreciation Ideas
Now that you understand the importance of customer appreciation, we want to give you a few ideas on how you can show your customers how much they mean to you.
A Handwritten Note
Whether it be a thank you note, or just a random note telling your customers what they mean to you, a handwritten note always goes a long way. The key to this is that your note must be handwritten. An email doesn’t have the same level of thought to it. A great way to include a note is in any packages you send, or maybe even a card for their birthday.
Gift Cards
A gift card is a great way to show your customers that you appreciate them. You can send a small amount like $5 or a large amount, either way getting a gift card is exciting. If you work with other businesses, support them by giving out gift cards to those businesses.
Spotlight Customers
Everyone loves a shout out! Show customers how much they mean to you by telling everyone you know about them. Link to their website and social media accounts when you can. This helps them gain exposure and can help build their businesses as well!
Reward Repeat Customers
A lot of companies offer deals for new clients or customers, but what about the people who are always there? Make sure you show them that you appreciate their continued support. Give them 10% off their next purchase!
Listen To and Implement Feedback
When your customers take the time to give you a suggestion or compliment, show them that you appreciate it by replying. Let your customers know that you appreciate their input. If you can implement their idea, let them know how it made a difference in your business. Maybe even reward them if you can. (Any of the suggestions above would be great to combine with this!)
Hold a Customer Appreciation Event
Nothing says “Thank you” like food! If your clients are mostly local hold an event where they can bring their families and mingle with your business. When you get the whole family involved it really shows that you appreciate their support. If you can’t do a local event, try to host something online! The possibilities are endless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Customer Appreciation
1. Why is customer appreciation more effective than big marketing campaigns?
Customer appreciation builds personal connections, fostering loyalty and positive reviews, which are powerful in attracting and retaining business.
2. How does customer appreciation increase market value for businesses?
Prioritizing customers creates outstanding reviews, enhancing your market value. Positive feedback attracts more business and sets you apart from online options.
3. Why is customer loyalty crucial for business success?
Loyal customers provide a steady stream of business and are more likely to recommend your business to others. Trust from loyal customers leads to increased profits.
4. What are some customer appreciation ideas to implement?
Ideas include sending handwritten notes, offering gift cards, spotlighting customers on your platforms, rewarding repeat customers, and hosting customer appreciation events.
5. How can businesses show they appreciate customer feedback?
Respond promptly to feedback, implement valuable suggestions, and consider rewarding customers for their input. Building a feedback loop strengthens customer relationships.
