Small Gestures, Big Impact: 5 Ways to Surprise and Delight Your Customers, Even on a Budget

As a small business owner, differentiating yourself from the competition can help you build loyal customers. A fun way to do that is to give your customers a little something extra for their business. This article discusses 5 creative ways you can put a smile on your customers’ faces and help them remember you the next time they need the product or service you provide.

Did a new customer shop with you today? Did a longtime customer make a sizeable purchase? Did a client recommend your business? Show how much you value your customers by writing them a thank you note. It doesn’t have to be long, just sincere. Here’s an example. 

Hi Selena,

It was such a pleasure working with you at the boutique today! I hope you love the outfits you selected and have a wonderful time on your vacation in Hawaii. Everything looked amazing on you. 

Thank you for thinking of us for your resort-wear needs! I look forward to working with you again and hearing all about your trip!

Sincerely, 

Molly

P.S. We’re having our annual Friends and Family Event on August 21-25. I’d love to see you there, plus the whole store will be up to 20% off!

Is it your customer's birthday? Or have they been your customer for a year and you’d like to commemorate the milestone? Thoughtful surprises in their inbox are a great way to keep your business top of mind. Some ways you can treat your customers include sending them a promotion, a sincere message, or an invitation to a customer event.

“I don’t like free stuff,” said no one ever. Surprise and delight your customers with little extras. Some ways to amp up the fun quotient are:

• Include branded stickers, pens, hand sanitizer, notepads, etc. in your customers’ packages.
• Add something free when your customer meets a spending threshold.
• Do you have an especially loyal customer? Show your gratitude with a more sizeable freebie such as a branded beach towel, coffee mug, tote bag, etc.

Treat your best customers and clients to something that will bring the wow factor around holiday time. Going the extra mile can help your most loyal customers feel extra special and appreciated. Make an unforgettable gesture with:

• Artisanal chocolates
• Fresh-baked cookies
• Gourmet popcorn
• Charcuterie-board favorites
• Gourmet coffees and teas

Going the extra mile for your customers can cost nothing or next to nothing. Let’s say you run a car repair shop. Offer your customer a ride if you don’t have a loaner car to offer. Help your customers carry their purchases or make a follow-up phone call to see how things are going post-purchase or service.

Thoughtful gestures can help build rapport with your customers and keep your business top of mind. Taking the time to build a relationship with your customers can help foster customer loyalty and retention. We hope this article sparked your creativity on ways you can make your customers’ experience one of a kind.

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.