What strategies do you use to increase customer loyalty?

One of the most important aspects in any business is customer loyatly. I was just wondering what strategies everyone uses to help improve customer loyalty? I would like to share some tips with everyone and some of the methods i've developed over time which I think are very powerful.

The first would be to create a friendly relationship with the client. Building personal relationships as opposed to striclty business is always a favourite. Always appear energetic and excitied about working with your clients, really get involved with the project and offer your own ideas and insights, never just sit back and let them drone on about what they require. Start conversations with a personal touch, "Hello James, how was your weekend?"

Presentation is also very important imo, the way you present your work, outlines, proposals will make or break a deal. Even down to the font you use. You don't always need to act professional when talking to clients but if you're presenting work thats professional in nature the customer will buy into a product of high value.

Free gifts and services are also a very attractive proposal or likewise you could offer "special" prices for specific customers to make them feel special and in turn they will appreciate you more.

Show your clients you know what you're talking about! I often provide a past client list to new clients of mine, I sometimes mention i've worked for x,y,z simply because it boosts my credentials.

Remember one satisfied customer will lead to another 5, one unsatisfied customer will lose you alot more!

Well there are some of my methods and ideas, what do you guys adopt?

Every one of my clients is a friend, that's all there is to it

Its a pretty simple concept. Make the customer happy. Happy customers talk, unhappy ones talk even more, the more happy customers, the better talk about your business.

ask them out. . .

Originally Posted by derek.l ask them out. . .

Lol. Awkward.

I agree absolutly with SoReal. You keep your current clients happy and they will make you happy. Ive seen it before. You do great work, maybe through in a few extras or deals for a client and chaances are you will be rewarded. Talk by word of mouth or good remarks go along way in keeping a steady flow of customers.

As for loyalty, respect your clients and treat them the way you would like to be treated and your set. Any decent person would feel positive vibes and will consider your services if another project comes up.

Thanks for the excellent advice Robinson!