It seems sometimes we get so busy looking for new customers that we forget about our loyal customers. Our loyal customers are those that have been with us since the beginning or nearly the beginning! They are the ones that you can count on for a reliable source of income.
But, we must not forget that while we are out trying to secure new customers...we have it in with our loyal ones and should take advantage of one powerful tool that they possess: word-of-mouth.
Is it better for you to toot your own horn, or for one of your customers to toot it for you? The answer is the latter. If a friend tells you how a great a restaurant is...aren't you more likely to try it out based on her recommendation than on your own?
SO, business owners...let's concentrate on customer relationships!
Here are some tips on building your customer relations:
1. Talk to your customer - Next time your customer walks through the door really talk to them. Find out what's going on in their life and maybe there is a way that you can help. Or, give your customer a call and touch base. If you see some sort of trend, it may lead you down a new marketing approach.
2. Customer appreciation day - Designate one day a year solely to give back to your customers. Arrange for food, drinks, maybe family activites, and special discounts for one particular day...just to say THANKS!
3. The written word - I am a big believer in hand-written thank you cards. They truly go a long way. It shows your customer that you took the time to sit down and spend a few minutes thinking of them. I'm always so delighted when I walk into a client's office and there is the thank you card I sent them posted on their cork board.
Good luck! Remember, a happy customer...can lead to more happy customers!
