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Here’s 7 successful PR methods to let your customers know you value them:
 

1)   Host a Holiday Tea or Wine & Cheese party by VIP invitation only. Add entertainment to create ambiance. Decorate to the hilt, and encourage your clients to invite a special friend.

2)   Send exclusive coupons or gift cards for discounts on your products and services. Leave it open enough so they can purchase anything they want, rather than making it product specific.

3)   Retailers, offer special shopping hours for VIP customers, perhaps in conjunction with a holiday VIP party.  Add a holiday fashion show featuring your loyal customers as models, or put on a spirited demonstration or special exhibit. Again, invite your client to bring a friend. If you do it up right, you may be able to pitch a local TV station to give your event live coverage.

4)   Provide a service or product for your customer’s office that the entire staff can enjoy.

5)   Give gift cards for personal services or restaurants, special gift baskets or tickets to a local museum.  Make an appointment and hand deliver them to the person you want to make sure receives it.

6)   Treat your point of contact to a holiday concert, play, musical or local sporting event.

7)   Send a professional customized greeting card with a special note of thanks from you. Include a newsletter, whitepaper or executive summary on market trends or new products and services for 2010.  Make sure it’s meaningful information to your clients.

“Studies show that 68% of customers leave because they feel they are being treated indifferently, not because of a “bad” experience, poor quality products, or better pricing somewhere else,” contends Kevin Lawrence, a business coach, speaker and agent of change.  “That’s why it’s so important to be sure your clients feel valued and appreciated. Studies have shown that loyal customers spend more money than new ones.” 

The best way to keep your loyal customers buying is to create a unique positive experience that no one else is giving them. Take the time to go through your list and identify your best clients. Design your appreciation gift or event with their needs in mind. Create something memorable. Make it more intimate and more personal, and don’t wait until the last minute.

No matter what type business you’re in, this kind of royal treatment will keep you top of mind with customers and nurture deeper long-term relationships resulting in referrals, customer loyalty, and repeat business. 

We love new ideas. What are you doing this holiday season to express gratitude for your loyal customers and ensure customer retention? Share you creative ideas with our readers here.

EasyChair Media is a full-service marketing firm and custom publisher. We offer marketing and PR consulting services and host of marketing products to help you stay in front of your customers and build your brand. Need help with PR campaigns, newsletters, custom collateral, blog and social media strategies? Give us a call at 800-741-6308 or 970-686-5805 or email me here.