What are you giving your clients, patients, or customers this December?
Your loving spouse hands you a mug of hot cocoa when you enter the house on a cold wintry morning after you've shoveled the walk. The hearty “ho-ho-ho”of a sidewalk Santa greets you as you drop a few coins in the kettle on your way into the store. A delighted look crosses your mom's face when you proclaim her holiday cooking the best in the world.
The holidays are a time of giving and receiving, often creating memories that last much longer than the winter season. Customer loyalty is one of those things that can give a business owner that warm fuzzy feeling. Are your clients, patients, or customers getting that feeling in return?
When you send out holiday emails to your list this year, add a little something special:
Send out gift-giving ideas to your customers. As time draws nearer to Christmas, add a little extra value by following up with last-minute gift ideas and shopping tips. The holidays can be a stressful time. Why not make it a little more convenient for your customers?
Add gift wrapping or free shipping. Your customers probably have a million and one different things on their minds. Make it easier for your clients to make time for you.
Offer gift certificates for purchase. Not only are gift certificates perfect for customers who are unsure what to give, but because they will be given as gifts, you'll have a chance to reach new customers.
Take the opportunity to educate your clients or patients. Own an auto garage? Give out tips on winterizing your car. If you're an attorney, a few words of wisdom about the responsibilities of homeowners and their icy sidewalks might be a good idea.
Create a video. A simple video recorded on a Smartphone is easy to create. Imagine the smiles on your patients' faces, seeing your whole staff wishing them happy holidays. Or make a silly “Come on down to Uncle Bob's for our CRAZY discounts and a free candy cane” video. With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless.
Customer appreciation can be expressed in many ways during the holidays, without having to resort to adding all those clients to your shopping list. Your customers are the most important part of your business. When it comes to spreading the holiday cheer, don't leave them out in the cold.