Successful Networkers continue to network with their clients as well as reaching out to create new business. They know what repeat business is just as valuable and require maintaining like a well tended garden.
There are so many ways to show your clients they matter. Dr. Ivan Misner, founder of BNI once told me a story of an office that had a welcome sign up for a visiting client. After hearing the story, I filled it away as a nice touch but really never put it into practice, until I went to visit my BNI District Director, Kathryn Lodal in San Diego for a meeting with her team. Visible at the street level through the glass door, I saw an easel with a hand letter sign that said “Welcome Cys & Dave” and I was there to learn from her!
This is the time of year we have appreciation and gratitude top of mind. Sending cards, maybe little token gifts are de rigor but have you thought of a client appreciation day? Or better yet, sending notes of appreciation during the holiday season with an invite for an event following the holidays?
One of my favorite things to do is to have a “Girls Night Out”. For those that might be excluded I have other events like my “July Babies Party” for those that share my birth month. I have a different small event each quarter. It allows me to connect through out the year, and by keeping the list smaller for each event it becomes more manageable and lets be honest, more affordable for my business.
How did I come up with the idea of the smaller, more intimate events? It was inspired by none other then networking genius and founder of The Astrology Zone, Susan Miller. Years ago we were having lunch and she shared with me that each year she shows appreciation to the press by having a dinner party for them at her home. She not only prepares the meal herself with a delicious turkey but send out personalized hand addressed invitations to those in the media that have helped her business. Susan is a very savvy woman to know that not all clients are transaction based.
Assignment:
Our assignment today is search the web for related customer appreciation ideas with an eye towards being affordable.
After that plan a Client Appreciation Event that won’t wither your bank account for January to kick off the new year for you and your clients. Remember to share your ideas and let us know how it went!
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In networking: The more memorable (positive and helpful) you are, the better the results. Questions? Feel free to call The Constant Social Media Networker, ActionSteps4Success Founder and BNI Executive Director Cys Bronner 866-889-3466 or email her at Cys.Bronner@ActionSteps4Success.com
Her motto: Making word-of-mouth marketing work for you