3 Ways to Build Customer Loyalty

February 25, 2014 Saul Edmonds

Simple Customer Loyalty Ideas for Your Business

"A satisfied customer is the best business strategy of all."
Michael LeBoeuf

One of the best ways to build customer loyalty is to put yourself in the role of a customer.

When you visit a retailer or supplier and receive a genuine hello or thank you, how does that make you feel? When you order a product or service, how do you feel when you receive a follow up call or letter asking if you were satisfied, and thank you for placing your order?

Small courtesies really matter when it comes to building customer loyalty.

Here are 4 ways to build customer loyalty that will help to grow your customer base and increase your overall traffic.

The more you engage with customers the clearer things become and the easier it is to determine what you should be doing.
John Russell, President, Harley Davidson

1. The Loyalty Programme

People love to be rewarded for their patronage, and whether you provide a loyalty card or a rewards program that encourages future purchases, if the underlying theme is that you appreciate the customers business you will see an increase in customer loyalty. Providing your customers with rewards tells them that even though they might consider looking elsewhere for the same product at a better price, the fact you take the time to provide them with bonuses and rewards for continuing to patronage goes a long way.

Action:
Find ways to implement a loyalty programme in your organisation. Create a community centred upon the needs of your customers, develop a rewards programme or introduce and promote membership benefits.

2. Handwritten Thank You

You recently purchased a new vehicle from your local auto dealer and within a week you received a hand written thank you letter from the salesperson who sold you the car. On the anniversary of that sale, you received another hand written thank you again telling you how much your business is appreciated and if you ever need anything to please call. What do you think the chances of that person referring their family and friends to that dealership are? They are extremely high because a simple handwritten note gave you and the dealer a connection that you can not get from flyers, commercials and emails like the competition does. Take the time to thank your customers with a simple handwritten note and express your sincere gratitude.

Action:
Take the time to connect individually with your customers. In the world of emails and text, a handwritten card or note stands out. Invest a little time in discovering the value of written communication.

3. Know Your Customers

It takes just as much time to small talk with a customer as it does to genuinely ask them questions concerning their lives. Asking about a child, or a sick family member, a new pet or a new addition to the family are all ways to show your customer that you have a connection with them. If you notice a change in their life and make reference to it, you show that customer that you do have concerns about them. These feelings can build customer loyalty for a lifetime.

Action:
Get to know your customers. Relationship building is the foundation of quality customer service. Ensure every customer feels valued and understood.