It’s amazing how far a simple ‘thank you’ can go.
Research shows that customers spend more, employees accomplish more, and suppliers are more likely to raise their game, if they’re thanked regularly.
“We’re living in what I like to call the ‘Thank You Economy,’ because only the companies that can figure out how to mind their manners in a very old-fashioned way — and do it authentically — are going to have a chance of competing,” says author of the book ‘The Thank You Economy’ Gary Vaynerchuk.
How exactly can you harness the power of appreciation?
Here are 9 ways to thank your customers, employees and suppliers to get you ahead:
1. Be specific
Focus your gratitude on what the employee or suppliers actually did. Rather than saying, “Thanks for your good work,” it would be more effective to say “Thanks for staying late last night to complete our project, your commitment really makes a difference to our team.” Use a similar strategy with suppliers, recognise them when they go above and beyond what’s expected.
Why it’s important: A focused ‘thank you’ will be more meaningful and thus increase employees’ motivation and productivity. A recent poll found that more than 35 percent of respondents consider lack of recognition of their work the biggest hindrance to productivity.
2. Make it personal
Connecting your appreciation with the recipient’s personal life can give your message more impact. If you show gratitude with a gift, relating it to life beyond the business, can add substance to your ‘thank you’.
Why it’s important: Showing intimacy breaks the ice in an emotional, not just a professional way, and is the game-changing way to greater profits.
3. Take it old school
When was the last time you received a handwritten thank you note? In the era of Facebook and text messaging, it’s likely been quite some time. Don’t underestimate the impact of sending a note through snail mail.
Why it’s important: Taking the time to write a thoughtful note indicates a deeper level of appreciation than simply dashing off a short email or text. Because the hand-written letter is pretty much a lost art, the extra effort will not go unnoticed and may make customers more inclined to give you repeat business or suppliers give you a better deal.
4. Add some real value
Host a customer appreciation day with deep discounts and giveaways for your loyal fans. Offer free delivery on all online orders. Give your employees small incentives for going above and beyond, like a gift certificate for a night at the movies or a small monetary or time bonus.
Why it’s important: Sometimes words aren’t enough. It’s gestures such as these that in the long run can help boost your bottom line. If your customers feel that you go out of your way to reward them, they’re more likely to choose you over your less-appreciative competition.
5. Don’t forget the little guy
It’s easy to remember and recognise the people you work with directly everyday. It’s also important to give thanks to the often-overlooked crew that help your business run smoothly. Leave a thank you note for the cleaning team, give the courier a gift certificate to a local restaurant, or get a dozen cupcakes for others that supply your business regularly.
Why it’s important: Most people don’t thank these hard-working people. So, a little effort will make you stand out and can go a long way toward getting great service from these people.
6. Refer business to your vendors and partners
There may be no better way to thank your suppliers than by sending more business their way. While such a direct referral is always appreciated, you also could go a step further and host a party for all your suppliers and partners. Invite your suppliers, accountant, lawyer, investors and anyone else you do business with.
Why it’s important: If you throw a party, you will not only be thanking your suppliers with a great time, but you’ll also be giving everyone a chance to network and connect with new clients.
7. Think outside the box
If you want to get the attention of suppliers and clients, send a distinctive thank-you gift. Consider geographic-specific gifts – find out where your people are based and send them something from a local supplier.
Why it’s important: Because some people receive hundreds of gifts throughout the year, you need to send a thank-you gift people will remember when it’s time to pull out their wallets.
8. Thank your complaining customers
Complaining customers are going out of their way to tell you why they’re dissatisfied. This generally means they still want to do business with you, assuming you’re able to fix the problem. When a customer complains, first thank them for their business and their feedback, then explain how you will make things right.
Why it’s important: Most unhappy customers don’t bother to complain, but simply take their business elsewhere. So every complaint should be seen as an opportunity to improve relationships and win repeat business.
9. Give social media shout-outs
Give social media shout-outs. Thank customers by posting on their feed, offer recommendations and share stories. Mentioning a loyal customer on social media publicly shows your gratitude. Feature one of your best clients on your company page, explaining why you appreciate them so much.
Why it’s important: Some of your most loyal customers and brand advocates are online, so you should show how much you value them in the social media sphere where they interact most with you and your business.
For more ideas on how you can thank your employees, customers, suppliers and your wider network and set up a rewards system in your organisation, get in touch with me here:
Book a call with me here and begin building exceptional customer service into your business.
Work with me:
I help owners, founders and leaders create a scalable business that works without them, build a world-class team, and 10x profitability. Book a call with me here to see if we could work together.
Remember, there are only three types of people – those who make things happen, those who wait for things to happen, and those who talk about why things don’t happen for them. Which one are you?
Recent Comments