“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” ~ John F. Kennedy
This time of year can easily be consumed with the “what-to-gives.” That feeling of nervousness which we are overcome by in attempting to decide how we will thank our best customers, and how we will show our gratitude for their loyalty throughout the year. We want to send the merriest of holiday gifts…but…what on Earth will it be?!
Well, it is to be commended if you can afford to and do shower your best clients with holiday hooray, but not everyone can. Some of own small companies – boutique hotels, small B&B’s, family owned tourist attractions, etc. Government agencies are often forbidden to give gifts as their organizations are funded by the taxpayers. But there’s hope! For those that need to get creative this time of year – here are a few ideas that will allow you to say “thank you” to your clients without breaking protocol, or the bank.
-
The Gift of a Good Read
Many companies have taken to the written word as a means for leadership training, team-building and to develop organizational standards and best practices. This is a fabulous way to thank your clients. Give them a book that means something to your company – and if you are tech-savvy, an e-book can be a great way to stay digitally connected too! A few of my favorites that center on leadership, office politics, and business growth include:
- A Whole New Mind by Daniel Pink
- Abundance by Peter Diamondis
- Shine by
-
Say “Thanks” with Social Media
Using your social media connections is a great way to be selective in how you thank your clients. Show your gratitude by hosting a “12 Days of Christmas Giveaway” – allowing everyone the opportunity to win, but keeping your costs to a minimum. OR…call out clients on Twitter, thanking them and thereby driving followers and potential customers to them.
-
There are many creative, and wallet-friendly ways to say “thank you” to your clients during the holiday season.
Give the Gift of Charity
An idea that some big businesses have taken to is the promise to send a charitable donation to a worthy and relevant agency from all of their clients. This doesn’t have to be a huge monetary commitment – the gesture is what matters, large or small. Including the names of your best clients with the donation is essential. BONUS TIP: Stick to charities that are not religious or political in nature, or those that specialize in a highly controversial topic. Good ideas include children and youth support, literacy, and hunger-elimination.
-
Party Time!
Many of your clients would much rather attend a party in their honor during the holiday season, opposed to picking through another sausage and cheese basket. Parties can be large or small, fancy or informal. TIPS: Make sure the “important” folks from your company are present to say thank you. And remember – when saying thank you, celebrations are either all or none. For example – if you plan to have a bar or alcohol, pay for it all. Cash bars do not have “We Appreciate You” engraved in the bar stools.
-
Why Now? Why Not on National Trivia Day?
Sometimes we think we must do everything via the status quo. Why? Let’s admit it, part of saying thank you to your clients is so that they remember you, like you, and want to work with you again. There is no shame in that. So, why not be different, so that you stand out even a bit more? Instead of a Thanksgiving Card or a Christmas gift once a year, why not send your clients a card on National Trivia Day (January 4th) signed with a clever message? You can find more fun, obscure holiday at www.holidayinsights.com
Whatever the holiday season calls you to do as a way to thank those who have been supportive of your business throughout the year, remember, that showing appreciation truly is about the gesture and far less about the monetary value.