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 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 shoppers don’t have to be expensive. My favorite tea store always includes extra packages of my regular tea or a new tea to try with the order. This makes me, as the customer, feel like I am more than just part of their income stream.
Gift Suggestions for all Budgets
I have asterisked items that will also work well for your male clientele.
Top Branded Gifts:
Tote bags
Small calendar frig magnet
Sticky notes/*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, gourmet coffee beans, a 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.
Mardi Gras, World Wildlife Day, International Women’s Day, and St Patrick’s Day; are just a few of the opportunities to show your customers some fun and love.
Jill Crossland is a business and marketing consultant who can take your business and social media to the next level.