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.

Rejoice Blair

Showing a client that I appreciate them goes far beyond handing over a gift at closing. It’s about making them feel seen, heard, and truly supported from the very beginning. My goal is for every client to finish the home-buying or selling journey feeling like they’ve gained a real friend, not just worked with a salesperson. Read more>>

Angela Aiuto

All clients I interact with are treated as if they are my only. I communicate on times they truly humbled me. I am an inclusive company, in that we will service any and all in love. As I regularly rotate my profile pictures on my advertising platforms, I had two women express they were relieved to see I perform same sex weddings without having to ask. Given this is still touchy here in the south, I know couples are turned down. I know they were happy to be able to go through booking “just like everyone else”. Read more>>

Jennifer Alsabrook-turner

I value my clients, and although I’m thrilled when they return, there’s always a little part of me that’s pleasantly surprised. The family I’ve worked with the most is really lovely and we’ve developed a good relationship over the years. I look forward to their requests for photos and enjoy catching up with them when we meet. After our eighth portrait session, I decided to create an album for them. It was something they’d talked about for quite some time, but just hadn’t gotten around to doing. I’m sure it’s daunting to think of going through a thousand images to choose your favorites. To show my appreciation, I decided to make an album as a gift full of wonderful photos from their eight sessions. I delivered it to them and it was such a fun surprise! I could tell it was completely unexpected, and they were very grateful. Read more>>

Galisia Johnson

I show my customers I appreciate them in EVERY appointment and with every item that I hand create for them. While the hair braiding market can be super saturated year around, I have found from my clients that I stand out because I show up authentically at all times, whether it’s on social media, public meet ups, or during hair appointments. Many braiders tend to take more than one appointment per day, mainly because it’s more money; but I opt to ONLY take one appointment per day. I give each client my full time and attention, free of distractions and with availability to answer any questions or give any explanations that will help their time with me go smoother. Read more>>