Making transactions with new customers will help your business grow but retaining current customers should be your highest priority as loyal customers add even greater value to a business. So, how to keep and improve your relationships with old buyers? Here are the four ways to help you:

1. Acknowledge customer loyalty
Has this customer availed your service for the tenth time? Try extending your gratitude to them by handing out coupons, discounts, or freebies. To be acknowledged for their support will surely make them feel appreciated.

For example, I have a client in Canada and I actually gave her a 5X500-word blog article for free as a gift for her 9-month customer loyalty. Until now, we’re still doing business together.

2. Address complaints effectively
Perhaps, your client did not go back to you because there was an issue with your customer service department. Handling unsatisfied customers, whether that would be a change in service or payment concerns, is a bit tricky. We all want a fair policy. If you can’t give an answer or solution immediately, you should be able to communicate with your customer when he or she can expect an answer to the problem at hand.

3. Create and innovate
So, a returning customer left you for a new company? Take this as a sign that you should upgrade your products and services in a way that can address the needs of your clients. Have a business audit of your company and find out which practices are outdated. Perhaps, your customers need faster payment schemes or new products to handle their problems.

4. Engage with them
Get your customers to engage with your brand through social media or email. Regular interaction can make them feel like they belong within your business community. You can do the following:

• • Start a discussion on GlobalLinker and other social media channels
  • Hold a customer photo contest
  • Ask for their opinion or content
  • Or, simply answer their questions online in a timely manner
    
    

Many businesses would want to branch out and reach new market audiences, but we all know that returning customers are the lifeblood of a business.

What do you think of the tips above? Let me know how you deal with returning customers!

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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views, official policy or position of GlobalLinker.