After a year full of challenges, showing your appreciation to your customers is more important than ever. There are many ways to express your gratitude this year, many costing little in the form of money or time. And if you haven't started thinking about thanking your customers, there's no time like the present to get started!

The Importance of Thanking Customers This Year 

2020 has proven to be a year like no other. Many Americans agree this year has been more challenging than the past, with many consumers' lives turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. The news is even more frightening for business owners, as more than 3,600 Kansas businesses have closed or filed for bankruptcy. Many other companies are struggling to make ends meet as the pandemic continues to affect the nation.

Given these statistics, business owners need to let their customers know how much they appreciate their support. As the year comes to a close, take some time to reach out to the people who have helped keep your business afloat this year. 

Selecting the Best Way to Express Your Appreciation

If you are wondering how to thank your customers for their support this year, then you're not alone. No two customers are exactly alike, so it's natural to wonder what you should do to express your gratitude. If you are ready to show your appreciation, but are not sure how to do it, then consider the five ideas below:

Emails

Emails cost nothing to send, and you can personalize them to be more meaningful to each customer. HubSpot offers some great ways to show your customers you care about them when crafting your email. Here are a few examples: 

• Make sure your email subject line says something positive
• Try to focus on the customer as opposed to promoting your business
• Remember, it's a good thing to sound human and sincere!

Mailers

Everyone enjoys receiving mail that contains an upbeat message! You have many options to consider, including flyers, cards with a handwritten note, or decorative poly mailers. If you decide to design the mailers yourself, remember to keep your message heartfelt but succinct. Make sure your company logo is visible, so your customers will know who it is from right away.

Small gifts

Sending something tangible to your customers is another way to thank them for their continued support during a challenging year. You don't have to spend a lot to show your customers how much you care about them. Here are some examples of some small gifts you can send that won't break the bank:

• Gift cards: You can send festive thank you gift cards that your customers can apply to goods and services.
• Personalized Hand Sanitizers: Small personalized bottles of hand sanitizer with a thank you note will help keep customers healthy and happy.
• Free meals or treats: Sending vouchers or coupons for complimentary food is an excellent idea for those in the restaurant industry.

Videos

"The great part of videos is that it's impossible to fake being personal. The customer knows how much time you've really put in." - Sarah Chambers, Shopify

How many times have you received a personalized video thanking you for your time, your support, or a purchase? If you are like most Americans, the number is probably zero! So you can imagine how pleasantly surprised your customer would be if they received a short video from you expressing your thanks and wishing them the best in the new year. 

Special "Thank You" Promotions

Offering a special promotion to loyal customers is a win-win for both your customer and your business. If you choose this way of saying thanks, it's essential to make sure that the promotion you offer is relevant, enticing, and motivating to your customers. Here are a few examples:

• Special Coupons: You can send a coupon for a free item of choice, a BOGO deal, or a certain percentage off. 
• Free Goods or Services: You can invite your customers to receive a complimentary specialty item or service on a designated day with purchase.

There are many reasons why you should thank your customers for their support this year. Whether you decide to send a card, a small gift, or a personalized email, it's essential to let your customers know you care. This small act of appreciation will go a long way with your consumers, remembering it in the future when they go to make a purchase.