"What is one of the best ways to keep customer loyalty? There is quite a bit of competition in my field with those doing exactly what I do."

Answers from our Readers:

“There are a few ways to help keep your customers loyal. First of all, you HAVE to provide the BEST customer service possible. If they have questions or concerns, address them quickly so they know that you care and appreciate their business. If possible, offer a "bonus" or "discount" for return business to give your customers incentive to use your products or services again. And ALWAYS follow up with your customers AFTER the sale to be sure they were satisfied with what they paid for. A happy customer or client will gladly tell their friends and associates about you!
Aimee Cummins,
www.MyPartyZone.net


One thing I do is to have a customer appreciation party at my home every year. I give away things by raffle and offer the best discount of the year. For my long distance customers I offer the same discount.

Kimberly Wall/Independent Designer for Home & Garden
Party
http://communities.msn.com/MyHomeGardenParty/



I think customer service is so important in keeping your customers loyal. Depending upon what field you are in, the type of customer service you offer may differ. Here are a few examples from my own customer service plan.

1. Keep customers informed about the status of their order--when it was received...when it was shipped, if you are out of stock or need to substitute items.

2. Answer all inquiries in a prompt manor. If you don't know the answer to their question, give them a timeline in which they can expect to hear from you about their concerns.

3. If you are in a product-oriented business, keep your offerings current and up to date. Keep your customers in mind when creating new product offerings. You could even ask them what types of products they would like to see.

4. Ask their permission to be kept up to date on your offerings and special promotions and send such mailings out consistently.
Kathy Lindberg Gift Basket Gallery
http://www.giftbasketgallery.com


One way to build customer loyalty would be to treat your customer as a friend. Don't treat your customer as another number, but as someone who really counts. If your customer has a question, even if it sounds dumb to you, don't act like it is. It wasn't dumb if he or she had to ask. Sign your customers up for a
personalized newsletter from your business. Email is cheapest and yahoogroups has a free service, but if you want to get more personal think about a monthly print newsletter. Getting in their face each month, in a non-confrontational atmosphere will help your customer feel more important. Don't just place ads in your newsletter. Give them tidbits and facts of interest, according to your business.

Alyice Edrich is a freelance writer and party
consultant. You may visit more of her works and order
party supplies at http://thedabblingmum.com

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