Almost daily, I receive positive feedback from my clients which makes me feel wonderful. I am not saying this to give myself a pat on the back, but just to illustrate the point that a simple “You’re terrific!” can truly make my day. Two simple words at the top of an email in response to an idea I sent to them or as a follow-up on something that they may have all but forgotten is confirmation that they feel properly served.

I hope that my clients realize that their appreciation of me not only brings a smile to my face but mirrors their reward by continuing to bring results right back to them. Gratitude from my clients only encourages my increased commitment and motivation.

I am thinking about ways to learn more about my clients, their business, and their plans for growth, but it also brings to mind ways that I can demonstrate my appreciation of their loyalty to me and to my business. Maybe you will be motivated to show your gratitude to your customers with some of these ideas:

• Create an annual calendar. Include birthdays, anniversaries, and other noteworthy dates for your clients. Schedule alarms as reminders for two weeks in advance and send a card, email, or gift, as you feel appropriate. Remember your clients during the holidays as well.
• Support your clients’ favorite charities. You can send a monetary donation in their honor, sponsor or host an event, donate an item for an auction, or simply attend their fundraising event as a show of support.
• Offer to host a networking event for all of your clients. Encourage them to bring friends and colleagues, and plenty of business cards. They will appreciate the opportunity you are providing for them to gain more business. Make a toast, telling them how grateful you are to know them and to work with them. You may also get new business for yourself from the people they invite.
• Personalize gifts and tailor them to your clients’ lifestyles. For example, a client who loves the outdoors may appreciate a picnic basket, blanket and a bottle of wine; a sports enthusiast may be thrilled to receive tickets to their favorite team’s next hometown game; a music lover will be overjoyed with the latest CD of classical music; a coffee lover will appreciate a basket of coffees from around the world. If your clients don’t live near you, send something that is especially known in your local area; for example, if you live in Florida and your client lives in New York, send a gift box of grapefruit and oranges.
• Select gifts which are functional and promotional. There is nothing wrong with promoting your business on a gift; be sure, however, it is something that will be used and not tossed in a drawer. Consider giving a bottle of wine with your company logo and a personal greeting, such as “Best of luck in your new home.” Other ideas may include a reusable shopping bag or a Post-It notepad holder for their desk.
• Offer free time or credit in exchange for their referral…who doesn’t love receiving service for free? Nearly every one of my clients has brought new business to me. I know they are referring me simply for the service and support they receive from me and not for the reward, but I am pleased to thank them in this way.

I hope these ideas inspire you to show gratitude to your clients. Feel free to post other ideas in the comments below.