After tens of thousands of conversations with business owners, we’ve concluded that one of the key determinants between thriving and struggling businesses is how appreciated customers feel. While that insight might seem fairly commonplace, what’s rare is discussion on how business owners go about making their customers feel appreciated. So, we reached out to some of the most loved and admired entrepreneurs and small business owners in the community and asked them to open up about how they show appreciation to their customers.

Elizabeth Italia

I work with cat owners, and if a cat owner is going through the effort and expense to hire a cat behaviorist, they already show a loving commitment to the happiness of their cat and home. I’m always moved when I see all that owners have done or are willing to do to create a harmonious environment for their cats (and themselves). One of my clients had a senior (older) cat, and adopted a kitten. The two did not get along. The kitten’s energy was too much for the older cat. I visited their home, and showed the family what to do to help the cats get more integrated. What followed were emails, text, calls, and another visit. Read more>>

Thommy Long

At the beginning of the pandemic, March 2020, we noticed that many local businesses were afraid to spend any money on marketing, and a lot of these businesses went silent. Knowing how customer engagement drives sales, My team and I created the FREE Lemon-Aid Program where they offered free social media graphics to local businesses to help promote themselves in these difficult times. This program was so popular that when word got around, LemonGrenade was able to help 37 business, creating over 100 ads, and donating more than 100 design hours to businesses in need. Read more>>

Hallie Avolio

In January 0f 2021 I felt called to really serve my audience in an unorthodox way. I knew how bad the world had been hit with the pandemic and the economy was shaky at best. I also knew that people were hurting and suffering from anxiety and mental illness and I wanted to spread as much joy and love as possible. I decided to offer many of my programs at absolutely no cost to support my customers and serve as many people as I could. I knew that my teachings and coaching would help people in so many ways and it felt like the right thing to do. I felt so fortunate to make this pivot for about 6 months and lean into my role of service leadership through my business. Read more>>

Marquita Robinson

I always give thanks to GOD first and foremost because he gave me strength to keep going and to never give up, even though it was times I had thoughts in my mind to do so, when I came up against negative people around me, deceiving, users and people who didn’t want to see me win and be successful. I give special thanks to every client who was part of my management company to help me build a brand and trusting me with their vision and career. Major S/O to everyone who supported me throughout this journey who has so much faith in me to get us to the top, all the encouraging words and motivation to keep going. Read more>>

Kosha Green

Through out the year, I am constantly implementing small things into my business that allows me show my clients that they are not just another number. In fact, once a year I host an event where I give back and also present category awards. I am a firm believer that actions speaks louder than words and I love to show my gratefulness to them every chance that I get. Read more>>

Candice McFashion

Let’s keep it real. There are tons of beauty companies selling cosmetics and beauty products. There are tons of shopping options for beauty lovers. However, there is only one Captivating Candy company. And while we understand why our customers shop with us, we also understand that they can shop with anyone else. Therefore, we really take honor in showing our customers aka “Candy Lovers” appreciation for trusting us with their needs. Read more>>

Mike Shrout

As a recording studio owner, (Joint Venture Studios) I provide the creative vehicle to allow the artist to express their art in a relaxed and comfortable environment. My job is to get their ideas to translate how they hear them in their head, out of the speakers. I have worked on projects from all over the world from major projects and artists, to assisting local artists. As an artist myself, I understand how important ones music is to them. I treat every client the same. Every project is important to me. I do my best to have a very fast turn around time, even if that means that I am burning the midnight oil to make that happen. Read more>>

MeShawn Churko

My personal experiences have allowed me to have a strong passion and dedication to connecting the right crystals with the right customer. It is not just a one time purchase; I communicate with the customer on their goals and needs with a certain stone or tarot deck and make personalized recommendations for them based on my expertise with crystals and spiritual growth and understanding. Read more>>

Karolina Guilcapi

In the travel world, it is easy for clients to get lost in the sea of options. There are so many offers out there. My job for the last 16 years has been to deliver not just a tour for clients to book, but an experience that they will never forget. With Sated Ventures, we treat every trip like our own, and understand that it may be a big investment or a dream trip come true. We make sure clients feel we care. From the moment we begin planning, every detail is discussed, zoom meetings and texting is our way to build a friendship and learn more about the guests’ expectations, and once they book – the real fun begins. Read more>>

Afrikka Hollinger

For each of my clients I provide some sort of council. Yoga, meditation, and dance all have the potential to promote an overflow of emotional release and a closer connection to recognizing and regenerating one’s personal power. Its important that I take care of each clients emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual well being while they are trusting me with their wellness. Read more>>

Keshia Cannady

I am first to say I am nothing without my subscribers and those customers that purchase my books. I am often offering free services through my website. I volunteer throughout my community and with local churches. I also send unexpected giveaways and blessings through email to subscribers and on my social media sites. I believe that you must show your gratitude to those who are holding you up on your platform. Read more>>

Dr. Tyronne E. Carter

Our business focusses on quality in terms of the STEM programs we present to schools and other organizations. So we try, whenever a problem arises, to focus on solving the problem. Our goal is to create and keep a customer, not just make a sale. One example is when there was a miscommunication with a customer and a class went longer than expected. Time is money, so we had to charge that customer an additional fee. The customer, who was using us for the first time, balked at paying more than originally estimated so we just wrote it off instead of arguing with them. Read more>>

Kimberly Henrie

Customer service and satisfaction is one of the core values and pillars that I have structured my company around. I strive to make every customer interaction one that leaves them and their pet feeling special and valued. One particular example that comes to mind is with a customer whom I have been working with over the last couple of years. Recently, this customer experienced a major medical episode that resulted in not only long-term health issues but had a significant financial impact on her life. She and her loving service dog were also displaced as a result of this event. Read more>>

Rhonda Burgess

The best thing I do for my clients is to treat them as I want to be treated. I understand my clients have options and can spend their time and money with anyone they choose, and they still choose me. Many of my clients have expressed their gratitude by telling me they can tell I love what I do because they feel my sincerity and see the joy I have for helping others ascend to their next level in life. One specific client told me she feels more empowered and confident because of our sessions. Read more>>