Small Business Marketing Tips: Five Ways to Thank Your Customers.

Thank your customers for sticking with you throughout this challenging year.

This year has been very challenging for everyone – most of all small businesses. With lower revenue and tighter budgets, you probably can’t wait for 2020 to end. Before we look too far into the new year, showing your appreciation to new and loyal returning customers will go a long, long way to create a positive customer experience and cement your relationship.

Here are a few low-cost ways to thank your customers this year.

Send a card, personal note, or even a personalized email card this Thanksgiving. We all expect to receive holiday cards in December. But not that many businesses send Thanksgiving cards. Because it’s unexpected, a Thanksgiving greeting card or note is more likely to stand out.
Give a gift certificate or gift card to use at your business. This will end up costing you some money (the denomination on the card), but it will bring a customer into your store, your office, or drive them to your website, where they’ll likely spend more than the face value of the card. You want to make the gift worth their while—so at least a $10 card is appropriate. Don’t make the card non-transferrable. That way, the customer can regift the card, which can bring new consumers to your business.
Let everyone know that you’re thinking about them. Make the month of November a “Why We’re Grateful” or “Customer Appreciation” month. Post this on your business Facebook page and share it with your fans and community.
Surprise! Send a free gift from your inventory, offer a free upgrade, or a substantial discount on your very best customer’s next purchase or appointment. Make sure to thank them when you send the surprise.
Send a gift. While sending holiday gifts to customers and clients isn’t a new idea, sending it at Thanksgiving is still relatively rare. You don’t have to break the bank—a tin of cookies or basket or gourmet chips and dips, etc. are a long-standing tradition, but the key is to make them personal and thoughtful.

No matter what you do, make sure to thank your customers for sticking with you this challenging year.