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.

Shelly Koehler

We definitely love our clients and it shows. They are the heartbeat of our business and we want them to feel loved and appreciated. We often mail out fun things or pop by with a fun little gift for them. For example I once mailed out a $1 scratch off lottery ticket with pots of gold / rainbows on them and printed stickers to go with it that said let us help your sellers find their pot of gold ! It’s not so much about “what” we mailed as the point of staying top of mind and “in front of” our clients. But the client event parties we throw once a year are truly the grand slam of our client appreciation. This year was 007 Casino Royale. We had music, food, drinks, black jack, craps & tons of fun and giveaways. At the end of the night clients traded in their chips for tickets and entered the drawing of their choice. We gave away 5 lovely prizes (around $100 each). We got tons of posts on social media and clients are already talking about next years. I would rather spend marketing money this way all day then “buying” leads. Our network is strong and often refer us business. This is accredited to investing into them and their lives and building relationships with people we know and love and who feel the same about us. Taking interest in your clients and serving them will change everything no matter what your business. Read more>>

Marcy Kuo

As a wedding vendor, or any member of the service industry, we pre-determine our scope of work. This is what we agreed to carry-out per the terms of our contract. However, to show my customers that they are more than just paychecks towards my mortgage, I go above and beyond my scope of work. It may not be in my job description, but it makes my customers feel like I care about their well-being, feelings, and vision. I don’t expect my customers to recognize that I go the extra mile, but when they do, it makes them feel I saved them from a world of chaos and trouble. I, in turn, feel more inclined to continue doing quality work, even outside my scope of work. Read more>>

Nicole Morgan

As a PR and Marketing agency, the bar is high to create unique experiences and show our clients how much we appreciate them. The challenge is that we want to do something that stands out and not just be another bottle of wine on their desk or box of chocolates during the holidays. Read more>>