With Thanksgiving and so many gifting holidays around the corner, it’s important to go beyond just your circle of loved ones when expressing gratitude this season. When you work with many different clients throughout the year, you should take into account the ways you can best thank them.
There are many reasons why some form of recognition is valuable, beyond showing how much you care and acknowledging the team effort of your business’s everyday operations.
Why Giving Thanks Means So Much
Any reciprocal relationship, especially with a client, deserves some acknowledgment. When you value these relationships and offer up thanks, this can help strengthen those bonds. Not everything in business must relate back to work, and by treating each client with importance and warmth, you’re relating to them personally.
There’s strength in these interactions, and you’re building a solid foundation for your current clients and anyone they may speak to about how you run your business.
When giving thanks, not only will it possibly strengthen the relationship, but it can also increase your client retention. So often, people stay with a job or project because they enjoy the people they work with.
Don’t you want to foster a healthy working environment? Praise never goes unnoticed, especially around the holidays when people may be stretched a little more thin than usual.
How often have you seen recognition for a person or company, and it made you eager to work with them? Genuine appreciation and thankfulness can enhance your brand’s image. Many people will see how you’re grateful for your clients, and how you express that.
If for no other reason, giving thanks should be about how you want the people you work with to feel appreciated. Everything else is just sprinkles!
Different Ways to Give Thanks
Not all client appreciation involves spending money you may not have (especially around the holidays). Sometimes, it’s more about the gesture and the time spent on making your client feel not only thought of, but valued. Some ideas for the holidays can include:
Discount or freebie
Depending on how close you are to a client, sometimes even a discount or freebie is a great way to say thanks during the holiday season. You’re showing you value them and appreciate your relationship, and you hope to continue working with them in the new year.
Small gift
Whether it’s a physical gift or a gift card sent through email, something small that you know they would personally like is a great token of your gratitude. From a homemade ornament to a batch of your best brittle, it doesn’t have to break the bank to send some appreciation!
Handwritten note
Receiving mail during the holiday season is always special! Sending out a thoughtful card or handwritten note will surely brighten their day.
Personalized “thank you” video
Saying a few words of thanks or recognition directly to your client may not always be feasible, so a video message is a great alternative, especially since it’s more personal and customized.
An “award”
Like Michael Scott giving out the Dundies, sometimes even a silly award can truly mean a lot. Offering out a Most Hardworking Award with a faux trophy can bring a smile to someone’s face, including a heartfelt speech dedicated to their prowess and can-do attitude.
Gift basket
Many companies offer gift baskets to be locally delivered, from fruit to home goods. This is a great option since it’s something tangible and full of thought. You may even include a personalized note of thanks or a holiday greeting card!
Express Gratitude Anytime
Though the season of giving and gratitude is nearly upon us, it’s important to remember to share your appreciation throughout the year. It takes many minds and personalities to keep a good business running effectively, and sharing accolades for each of these moments and people is crucial.
Giving credit where it’s due can mean the world, so consider ways you can show your clients, and maybe others in your life who have helped support your business, how much you truly appreciate them. Seasons greetings to you all, and here’s hoping for a happy new year!
