Customer Loyalty

In this day of internet shopping and new businesses spawning from corporate lay-offs, how can you keep your customers happy and loyal to YOU? Here are some tips to help your customers remain YOUR customers.

*Delivering great service once is not enough. It's the "every time" great service that keeps clients loyal. Customers have a choice as to whom they will do business with. Find out what service you offer that sets you apart from your competitors and consistently provide that service.

* Focus on your customers' needs and then deliver what they want. Ask questions or conduct surveys, then incorporate the results into your product or service. Pay special attention to any negative comments and turn those negative experiences into positive ones.

* Go the extra mile. What can you do to "WOW" your customers? Give an unexpected token gift that is not attached to a promotion. Send a note or email that provides information on a hobby to a client. Send a birthday card or postcard offering a percentage off a future service that is good several months past the person's birthday.

* Never underestimate the power of the words "Thank You". Remember to continuously thank your customers. It can be simply adding words of appreciation on an invoice or sending a note of appreciation which includes a gift card for a successful referral.

Customer loyalty should be a constant focus for your business. If you are ever-present in your client’s minds, you will be their first choice when they are ready for the product or service you offer.