~by Susan McGuire~
It takes time and money to acquire customers or clients; keeping them coming back is even more important. Loyal customers and clients are your business gold. They give you repeat or continuing business, they can refer new customers to your business, and they can give you testimonials. In short, they are priceless to you. They deserve your appreciation and YOUR loyalty.
But what so often happens with many businesses is that they focus much more of their attention on acquiring new customers, courting them, giving discounts – often at the expense of long term customers. If you have fallen into this pattern, how do you think that makes your long-time, faithful customers feel? That they don’t matter? One all too common example of this is our internet, television and phone service providers. They give all the great deals in an attempt to entice new customers over to them. Then, after a period of time or commitment by the customer, their rates are raised drastically, while new customers get the good deals. Sound familiar?
Your loyal customers are more valuable to you. They’ve already proven themselves to you, and they are much more likely to share their bad experiences with you on social media. And THAT can surely damage your reputation.
I’ve been a steadfast customer to a certain business for quite a long while. But lately I’ve been feeling like I don’t get the VIP treatment that other customers are given. Sometimes I feel as though I’m treated as a non-paying customer, like I don’t matter. If this continues, I will move on – despite the many years I’ve been going there, and despite the comfortable relationship we’ve built. Simply being friendly towards me is not enough. As a long-time customer, I expect to be treated like a first-time customer you’re trying so hard to please.
Make your customers thrilled to be doing business with you; make them want to share their wonderful experiences with anybody they meet. Give your loyal customers and clients an occasional token of your appreciation, send them thank you notes, remember their birthdays, give them random and unexpected discounts, or do something creative to show your gratitude for their business.
So my advice to any business owner is this:
Don’t EVER take your existing customers or clients for granted. Don’t make them feel that they don’t matter. They will notice and might just take their business elsewhere. With so many options out there, they can and will simply move on to your competitors. It’s an easy trap to fall into – but for your business’ sake, don’t let that happen.
Meet the Author: Susan McGuire
Susan McGuire
As an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and Lifestyle Guide, Susan takes a practical, comprehensive and personalized approach as she supports and empowers her clients to achieve their health and lifestyle goals. Coach Susan meets her clients where they are, and works with them to find the right combination of positive lifestyle and behavioral changes that they can implement with lasting results.
If you’re ready, willing and motivated to take charge of your health and transform your life, then consider talking with Coach Susan.
To take the next step towards achieving your health goals, schedule your complimentary Breakthrough Session with Coach Susan:
• Website: mcghealthcoach.com
• Email: McG.HealthCoach@gmail.com
• Lifestyle Lessons Blog: www.HealthCoachSusanMcGuire.wordpress.com
