While every purchase matters, you want to build long-term relationships with customers that lead to multiple purchases. Relationship marketing can help you connect. It is a strategy with one primary goal: building deep, meaningful relationships with customers that lead to long-term brand loyalty.
In addition to repeat customers, relationship marketing leads to:
- A greater understanding of customer needs and wants
- Reduced marketing costs
- More engaged customers who bring referrals
Here’s how to engage customers, making them repeat and loyal buyers, by using relationship marketing and customer appreciation gifts.
Raise the bar on customer service
One way to impress clients is with exceptional customer service. Find ways to surprise, delight and over-serve your customers. That way, they’ll enjoy working with you time and time again.
Ensure your response time is as fast as possible. Whether you’ve received an email, social media message or a voicemail message, it’s essential to follow up. Even better, call them before they call you. If they make a purchase, for example, ask for feedback on their experience. You could even thank them with a small customer appreciation gift, such as a Double Pocket Cell Phone Wallet.
Don’t forget, the small details really add up. So, use their first names, say thank you, avoid saying “no” and always smile—even if customers can’t see you.
Create a rewarding referral program
Another way to encourage long-term customer relationships is with a program that makes referring friends and family simple. For example, provide unique codes or website links that customers can easily pass along. It will make sharing seamless, while also making it easy for you to track results.
Promote the referral program whenever possible. Include the information in emails, on your website, all social media pages and in your company email signatures. Referral gifts are 24% more effective at improving an outcome than cash. Thank every customer who recommends you with a gift. Choose quality items and tiered gifts for subsequent referrals.
For example, for a first referral, provide a trendy item such as a Stainless Steel Straw Set. For a second referral, thank customers with a Custom Accent Stainless Travel Mug. For a third referral, offer a Crossland® 15″ Laptop Backpack. And so on.
Celebrate special occasions
Another way to build customer relationships is by remembering and marking special occasions. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday or anniversary, customers will appreciate the sentiment.
For birthdays, send a special “Happy Birthday” message. Make your cards or emails memorable by including a video message from your team, a discount or a small customer appreciation gift, such as a Value Lip Balm.
When the holidays roll around, make it a memorable experience by personally delivering gifts to customers. Choose a gift, such as the Chocolate Collection Tower, that the whole office can enjoy.
Know your audience
Finally, take the time to truly understand what your customers want. Ask what they like, and what they dislike, about working with your company. In addition, if a prospect decided against working with you, ask them why. They may provide valuable feedback that will improve your product or service. Thank everyone who responds with a Motivation Spiral Notebook with Pen or Power Clip. Also, be sure to use social media. Use customers’ comments and reviews to drive changes. Or poll followers about their likes and dislikes.
Go for the marathon, not a sprint.
Give a reason for customers to return again and again with these tips and customer appreciation gift ideas. Whether it’s a memorable experience, special gift or just that feeling of really being understood, these relationship marketing tips will leave customers wanting more of your brand.