Today’s competitive environment is fierce, and becoming more so as more and more companies are doing WHATEVER they can to get new business and keep what they have. So how do you set yourself apart, particularly when you may be dealing with competitors that aren’t nearly as ethical as you are?
Cards work. Think about it, your customer gets a heartfelt card from you – with NO sales pitch, with NO underlying motive. The purpose of the card is simply to say “Thanks, I appreciate YOU.” If the card is not only a beautiful card with an inspirational saying on the front of it, AND it has the customer’s picture on the inside OR you’ve placed a picture of the customer’s business on the outside of the card and a few more pictures on the inside, where do you think that card is going to be? Will it get thrown away? No, I don’t think so. It’s going to be displayed proudly on that person’s desk or bulletin board for all to see (including your competitors.)
Your customer will be looking at that card every single day, and will be thinking positive thoughts about you. Maybe they won’t be in surch a hurry to switch vendors to save a few cents, as they are already working with someone who is serving them expertly, and is appreciative of the business.
Appreciation marketing does work. It’s hard to let go of a strictly sales mentality. We always want to tell our customers WHY we’re the best and HOW great our products/services are. Let’s remember to treat our customers like people and show genuine appreciation for them AND for their business. You’ll be amazed at the business you will keep, and the referrals you will get. And you know what else? It feels GREAT to make someone’s day!
I recently presented a class to a group of nurses. Before the class, I just said, “Ok, group shot.” They didn’t even question me, they just lined up, smiled, and I took their picture. I put a beautiful inspirational cover on the card and their group shot on the inside. Several of them thanked me for totally making their day, and one in particular happened to receive the card after a particularly grueling day, and she said it was the “nicest thing that happened today.”
That’s what makes it all worthwhile.
How do you make yourself stand out with your customers? Please post a comment and let me know!
Have fun,
Lisa
