From branded gifts to personal notes, regular customer appreciation activities are an essential part of doing business. Without a doubt, reviews – good and bad – spread fast. Positive word-of-mouth (42%) is even more important than a sale or promotion (34%) when considering what’s most likely to motivate someone to try a new company, according to an American Express survey.

To generate more positive talk and valuable long-term loyalty, make customer appreciation a priority. Does it need to be costly? No. Does it need to be consistent? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely! Eight of 10 businesses give gifts as a retention strategy, meaning your competitors are likely using tangible ways to show their customers they care. Here are four tips you can take to the bank:

  1. Send a card. Always thoughtful and often unexpected, a word of thanks is nice after a first, large or repeat purchase, or in appreciation of a referral. While email may be efficient and easy for broad-reaching acknowledgements, nothing tops the touch and feel of a personalized, handwritten note on high-quality stationery or a note card with your logo embossed or foil-stamped logo on the front.
  2. Bring lunch. For top business-to-business clients, offer to bring lunch to their location. You can pack logoed, reusable lunch totes with edibles, and leave behind branded water bottles or travel tumblers. Business-to-consumer companies can host an open house, sending an inexpensive postcard to invite loyal customers to a pre-sale event with preferred pricing.
  3. Get personal. If your customer data is robust and includes birthdays, anniversaries or other significant dates, you can build in recognition beyond typical business-related occasions with personalized offers and gifts. Have clients who are into fitness? Pick logoed pedometers or exercise mats to show you know . . . and care.
  4. End on a high note. Year-end holidays are a prime time to send cards and gifts. Tried-and-true, printed wall calendars have secured their spot in the workplace despite the plethora of electronic options. Other welcome desk accessories include journals and portfolios or electronics, like power kits or Bluetooth speakers.

Allegra’s professional shoppers can find you logo gifts for every occasion and budget. Let us know how we can help.