The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been easy on anyone. However, if there’s one thing that has been proven time and time again, it’s how much everyday people want their local businesses to survive and thrive. If you would like to thank your loyal customers for sticking by you, then here’s how to do it.
Gifts and Tokens
You may be surprised at just how effective small promotional products and corporate gifts can be as a gesture of thanks. While the cost of buying a branded keychain, reusable coffee mug, or even a candy jar is small, the meaning can be significant. What’s more, you may have just landed a customer for life.
Include Handwritten Notes
If you have started selling products online, then you’re in a desirable position during the COVID-19 pandemic. You are still able to make a living, but you’re ready to keep yourself and your customers safe. Thank people for sticking with you by adding a handwritten note to their order.
Heartfelt words of appreciation can not only tug at the heartstrings but also have some surprising benefits. It becomes an extension of your brand’s personality and can be an affordable way to welcome repeat business.
Loyalty Cards
Over 90% of companies in America offer a loyalty scheme. Does your business have one? Over half of Americans will join a loyalty program of a store they frequent often, and over 80% will make a redemption. Offering something for loyalty can come at a small cost to you, but it can provide the foundation for a repeat customer who continues to support you through thick and thin.
Special Sales
You won’t find too many people who will say no to a sale. Even a small discount of 10% can make a massive difference to how many customers you see each week. While offering a deal to show your appreciation is a nice gesture for your customers, it can benefit you, too. Sales can attract new and repeat customers, increase your overall profits, and free up space for new stock in your store.
Keep Them Safe
One of the best ways you can show your appreciation for your loyal customers is by keeping them safe. Many countries around the world are encouraging their citizens to practice social distancing and wear masks. Do your part by setting your shop up in a way that offers the safest experience possible.
The CDC has published several recommendations for how to go about this, including keeping ill employees at home, ramping up cleaning, and offering contactless payment options. You can even take it one step further by promoting online sales and contactless delivery and pickup.
Give Back
If you are in a position to do so at a later date, give back to the community that supported you and your business. When we close the door on this awful chapter, think of ways you can bring your valued customers together (safely). Donate to a local charity, host an event that benefits local families, or host a special evening for valued clientele.
You won’t find too many people looking back on the events of 2020 and smiling. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t bring as much love and light into your industry as possible. There are many ways you can thank your loyal customers for sticking with you through the pandemic. Why not try some of the options above?
