Monday, February 10, 2014

Why should we show appreciation to our clients and customers?


Often times when I write a blog I search for material from online articles and blogs.  Recently I've been writing about the 'Why' we should do things.  Usually when we know and understand our 'Why' then the how is much more doable. 

When I did a search on 'Why' we should show appreciation to our clients and customers, I didn't find much.  I found more on the 'How.'   I believe our 'Why' has to be more than to increase our bottom line.  If the perception you want associated with your business is that of friendliness, gratitude, and humbleness, then this is an area to focus some time and resources.

Showing appreciation is important, yet not all of us practice that consistently with our customers, co-workers, volunteers or connections.  According to a SoulPancake video, The Science of Happiness: An Experiment in Gratitude, showing gratitude benefits the party being thanked and the person showing gratitude as well.
Being busy is often cited as the reason there’s a delay or oversight in sharing appreciation, followed by the awkwardness.  In the video, the experiment of thanking those who had been most influential in our lives was a bit awkward for some.  However, the results were very beneficial to both parties.

Probably showing appreciation to clients and customers may seen a little time consuming.  Good habits take time and showing gratitude is no different. 

The most important part of this is that it must be sincere and communicated in a way and form that the recipient can hear.   

Keep in mind people do business with people. A strong, appreciative culture growing in your business will exude and become a part of your brand culture. That will be evident in every interaction with your customers.

People are far more willing to associate and do business with someone who appreciates and respects them. By focusing on showing gratitude, co-workers, colleagues, customers and others around you feel valued and important.

I think this quote sums it up - “Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow” - Melody Beattie

In appreciation,

Annette

*Excerpts from US News article - 'How to show appreciation to colleagues and clients.'

 

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