Document Actions
Show appreciation to your customers
STILLWATER, Okla. – Two words. Thank you.
If you are a business owner you know customers are a vital part of your business. Many times opportunities to say “thank you” are overlooked; now is the time to thank your valuable patrons.
Glenn Muske, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension interim associate dean, assistant director, family and consumer sciences, said clients give owners many opportunities to stay in their mind in positive ways and oftentimes businesses overlook these opportunities.
“With the economy facing harder times, it’s important for businesses to remember to thank their customers for their business,” Muske said. “A personalized thank you on letterhead or a postcard shows the customer you appreciate their business. Saying thank you to someone is always appreciated and can never be said enough.”
Muske recommends these tips for letting your customers know they are appreciated:
- When comments or suggestions are given to your business, thank the customer for their suggestion and tell them their input is important to your business’ success.
- When a customer tries something you recommend, make a special effort to say thanks for his willingness to trust you and try something new.
- If a customer recommends you, remember this is the best form of advertising. Take the time to thank them, even give them a small token for appreciation.
- Greet your customers when they walk in the door or soon after entering. This gesture is a matter of respect and shows that you appreciate them for visiting your business.
“Keeping customers is just as important as gaining new ones,” Muske said. “Each customer’s positive view of your company can lead you to be more profitable and successful. It has been found that, in comparison, the cost of retaining a customer is $1 compared to $20 on average to acquire a new customer.”
###
Oklahoma State
University, U.S. Department of
Agriculture, State and Local Governments Cooperating: The Oklahoma Cooperative
Extension Service offers its programs to all eligible persons regardless of
race, color, national origin, religion, gender, age, disability, or status as a
veteran, and is an equal opportunity employer.
Katie L.
Reim
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications
Services
140 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
405-744-6792 (Phone)
405-744-5739 (Fax)
katie.reim@okstate.edu
