It is a well-known fact in the business world that it is more advantageous from a financial perspective to retain your current clients than it is to bring in new ones. While bringing in new clients should be one of your top goals as an entrepreneur, being able to count on consistent business from your current client base should be your main focus.
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One way to retain clients is to make a concerted effort from time to time to show your appreciation for those customers who have continues to stick with you. Depending on the type of business that you own, how you go about your customer appreciation efforts might take a bit of creativity.
You should expect to invest a bit in your customer appreciation, but not to much as you risk breaking the bank. The goal is to make a slight investment in your current customers to motivate them to continue doing business with you, thus presenting a solid return.
With that in mind, here are three ways in which you can show your appreciation for your valued customers without overspending on this initiative.
1. Give Out Branded Gifts
Who doesn’t love to receive a free gift every once in a while? Your clients will certainly appreciate the gesture of a customer appreciation gift, whether it is given with a purchase or simply for seemingly no reason at all.
When you choose your customer appreciation gifts, it is a good idea to opt for branded, such as quality branded reusable coffee cups. This is the type of gift that your customers will use on a routine basis, and because it features your company’s brand, they will be reminded of your business every time they use it.
You can also make them feel extra special with branded personalized Jotted Line pens. These make for great gifts because they are suitable for any occasion. And they fit any type of person as well. You don’t have to worry about finding the right appreciation present for your valued customers. Many of them are eco-friendly as well, perfect for eco-conscious clients.
2. Offer a Percentage Off a Purchase
Another great customer appreciation offering to consider is that of a certain percentage off their next purchase. By giving a coupon or voucher for, say, 10% off a single purchase, you show your appreciation for your customers and encourage them to make a purchase when they might not have otherwise done so.
Since this is a customer appreciation method that involves reducing the cost of a purchase, you will want to choose the amount wisely. Just ensure that the percentage off that you offer is enough to entice a customer to make a purchase.
3. Ask for Feedback
Sometimes, you can make your customers feel more valued by simply offering them the opportunity to allow their voices to be heard. Requesting routine feedback from your clients regarding the manner in which your business handles their needs is a great way to keep them in the loop and make them feel as though they are a greater part of the picture.
Rules of Gift Giving for Businesses
Gift-giving, especially for business, can be a complicated endeavor. There are several things to consider, including the budget, presentation, customization, logistics, and the best items to give to please customers.
Companies also have to follow gift-giving etiquette and consider the recipients of their gifts. For example, there are rules when giving gifts to government employees and government-affiliated clients. Generally, government officials are not allowed to accept gifts for specific purposes and from certain sources.
How much you spend on each gift is also a serious consideration. Is it acceptable to pay $10 per gift? Are there good gifts in that price range? How low or high can you go? You want to choose suitable gifts for customers but not to the extent of going outside your budget. A lot of thought and planning should go into choosing and giving gifts to customers to ensure all parties are happy and satisfied at the end of the day.