According to the Customer Experience Impact report from Oracle, eighty-nine per cent of consumers begin doing business with a competitor following a poor customer experience, with the main component of a negative customer experience being when a business fails to appreciate their custom.
As the saying goes, “actions speak louder than words” and going that extra mile to convey gratitude towards your customers is something which separates you from your competition. You can celebrate your customers and show your appreciation in numerous ways.
alldayPA looks at 10 inexpensive ways to say thank you to your customers:
1. Write a thank you note
Don’t underestimate the power of such a simple human gesture. Nowadays, the majority of business communications take place online. Hand writing a thank you note will allow for your business to stand-out.
2. Issue a telephone call
Making a phone call, or leaving a voice message, to tell your customer how much you appreciate their loyalty is a compelling and personal way to express your gratitude.
3. Create an anniversary date
Celebrating the date of when each customer made their first purchase at your company is a creative way to say thank you for their business. Loyal friends celebrate milestones together, the same principle should apply with customer relationships.
4. Post a social media call out
Always thank customers publicly on social media as often as possible. It’s always an enjoyable experience to be recognised on social media by your favourite company.
5. Send a picture of appreciation
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so why not get creative and show your appreciation by sending a picture of your customer attending your business event – don’t forget to attach a thank you note!
6. Special occasion card
Actively send your customers greeting cards on celebratory occasions, such as birthdays and Christmas. Or be remembered by sending a customer an occasion card for a unique holiday, such as the customer’s half-birthday.
7. Give merchandise away
If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to thank your customers, dig into your company merchandise cupboard and start sending out those key holders, coffee mugs and t-shirts. A promotional pen or notepad always comes in good use.
8. Host an event
Invite your most loyal customers to an exclusive event where you can thank your customers face-to-face. Schedule an event where you can listen to your customers suggestions. Your time is often more valued than any gift.
9. Treat for a tweet
Many companies have turned to social media as a way of thanking their customers, and to reach a much wider audience. By allowing customers to tweet for a treat during selected time-periods will successfully demonstrate the value you have for your customers.
10. Exhibit your customers
People have a desire to be recognised. By featuring loyal customers on a page of your website, you’re focusing the spotlight on them and making them the star of the show. This recognition is a wonderful (and public) way to show you care.