Our Storytime series is based on the premise that stories are one of the most powerful ways to learn and so this series explores topics we think matter greatly to the success of small business owners and artists and creatives. One of those topics is showing customers that you appreciate them because there is a vast body of research as well as countless anecdotes of how showing customers you appreciate them directly impacts the degree to which your business will succeed and grow. Below, you’ll find stories of how some very talented entrepreneurs have made their clients feel appreciated.

Holly Fisher

One of the cornerstones of my business is relationships. I love building relationships with my clients — getting to know them not just as professionals but as people. Business owners have a lot of options when it comes to working with a marketing professional so I’m honored when they choose me. I want to help them build a firm marketing foundation so they can grow their revenue and have a thriving business. My love language is gifts so it only makes sense I like sending gifts to clients. Sometimes that’s a welcome box with a copy of “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller or another marketing book, a few branded promotional items, and a bag of popcorn made by a local company. Getting to know my clients also allows me to send small tokens of appreciation that are in line with their hobbies, values or interests. I’ve given devotional books, a bag of coffee beans, candles and more. Clients are surprised and delighted by these gifts. I believe showing customers you appreciate them goes a long way toward nurturing long-lasting customer relationships and encouraging referral business. Read more>>

Briana Hunter

I pride myself on customer service! A small piece of me feels like it has become a lost art amongst the small business owner community. There was a time that I had a client that had a very close family member pass away a few days prior to her appointment. Due to ongoing funeral processes taking place, the client was over 45 minutes late to their appointment. At the time, I only allowed for a 15 minute grace period. Understanding that the client was going through a rough time, I still serviced them and offered a shampoo and blow dry free of service to the client. I also made it a point to offer complimentary snacks and drinks. More importantly, in the moment, I was able to serve as a sense of peace. Offering advice, allowing room to vent and simply being present made the client feel safe and at home. The late arrival no longer mattered as I was more focused on making sure that the client was comfortable and content. We did have to make a few adjustments to the service due to time constraints however the client left completely satisfied and was very appreciative of the entire experience. Read more>>

Mathew Aguilar

To show my appreciation for their trust and loyalty throughout the process, I prepared a personalized welcome package for them. It included a framed photo of their family in front of their new home, a handwritten note expressing my gratitude, and a gift card to a local family-friendly restaurant. I wanted them to feel not just like clients but like valued members of my real estate family.Read more>>

Carmen McBride

I show all of my customers that I appreciate them. I send them personal emails with thanking the customers for their purchases.
I also give free small samples of my jams and jellies to preferred customers.
I have given little gift packs of jams for preferred customers. Read more>>

Anna Roze

Getting your hair done is the one appointment on the calendar most people don’t dread to go to. When my client’s walk in the door they become my guest and they are as happy to see me as I am to see them. With that excitement and optimism comes the burden of never having a bad day; because who wants to see a grumpy stylist? No one. Guests want to sit back and relax with a glass of wine and leave feeling pretty and happy. The best thing I’ve ever done is create consistent boundaries as to when I am working and when I am not. Taking time to go for a run, a weekend away or even a random day off to catch up on laundry and a good book, has created a mindset that I am not a servant to my clients that doesn’t have the power to say no. Instead, I have a fun and adventurous life that brings interesting topics to chat about when my guests are in my chair. When you are at your best and fully engaged with someone it is felt by both people. When a new guest comes in, its like a first date. You are both having to do an excellent service as well as be a likeable person. If I am well rested, fed and at my best, I excell at my craft. When I am tired, hungry and not taking care of myself, my guest can feel the lack of energy and although my craft my not necessarily suffer customer service will. Being at my best, both mentally and physically is the best thing I can do for my customers. Read more>>

Tausha Hammett

Making sure our product stays consistent including taste, price and portion size. We treat all our customers like family. Read more>>