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.

Jessica Faehnle

The best thing I’ve ever done to show a client (because I don’t ever call them “customer”, I make them my friend) I appreciate them and their time is… I connect on a personal level and show genuine understanding of their needs. I have many stories of appreciation for my clients. They are the reason I do this work. It’s not just my love of photography and art that keeps me doing this job. Read more>>

Angela Velasquez

As a cat specific pet supply store there is ample opportunity to demonstrate customer appreciation by listening carefully to what’s going on with their cat, and offering sound advice based on first-hand experience, or relayed by another customer who went through something similar. Customers feel appreciated with they are heard, and even more so when they are helped (which can’t be done effectively unless you listen and ask the right questions first.) I do my best to offer this service to every single person who walks through my door. Read more>>

Mary Ann Landry

During Hurricane Harvey, we had several patients that had flooded and some of them were having very difficult times making ends meet. Our team rallied together and assembled essential items and hand delivered baskets to the individuals. Our goal was to give a piece of comfort and care for our patients who were struggling. A sense of community is so important. Read more>>

Chanickqwa Griffin

As I was learning he to manage my business in my first year, I was also learning packaging of my products. Should I leave a thank you note? Should I leave a coupon for their next purchase? What was the best way to keep my customers happy and coming back? I wanted to make the experience something to remember from start to finish. Then I remembered what worked ON me. Read more>>

Jessica BLATE

I make sure clients get digital and print portraits in each package but I make sure to go out of my way by presenting clients with special gifts depending on occasion. Their gifts consist of blanket, pillow, towel, coasters, bags, etc and all these items have their portraits on them. Read more>>

Annel Castillo

I try my best to have snacks for my clients for when they come to their appointment. Sometimes they come straight from work and don’t get a chance to stop and buy food or a quick snack after a long day at work. I like having a variety of chips, candy, drinks etc. and I know they love it because they always thank me and let me know. Read more>>