I’ve written before about the importance of cultivating and nurturing clients. Drawing on my years of experience working in nonprofit public relations and fund raising, I thought it might be useful to touch on the importance of saying “Thank You” to our customers and clients. What the experts say is true, you can really never say “thank you” enough!
There are so many ways to show your appreciation and say “thank you” to a customer or client. There is always the brief “thank you” that comes with the close of a conversation or sale—but if you really want to create loyalty and build relationships in your home business, you need to find other ways to let your customers and/or clients know how much you appreciate their business. Here are some suggestions for other ways to say “thanks”:
Make sure to write a hand-written note of thanks on all your invoices and receipts—this adds a personal touch and conveys appreciation. Also, include a message of appreciation on all your e-mail messages and even practice saying “thank you” at the close of all your phone conversations with clients and/or customers.
Sending personal cards and notes—either for holidays, birthdays, or “just because”—is another way of letting your customers know that you feel gratitude to have their support for your business efforts. Some people also send along a special coupon or “deal” periodically to customers as a way of saying “thanks.” You might consider offering samples of new merchandise or a free consultation to let customers know that you appreciate them too.
If you’re really feeling like doing something big—consider offering a special party or gathering for your most loyal customers. Depending on the type of business you are in, this can be a great way to say “thanks” and introduce new products or changes in the business at the same time.
See Also: Do You Know What Your Customers Want?