Customers are the single reason any company exists.  Brands are built on appealing to those customers with consistent messaging, quality products and exceptional service.  So how do companies show their appreciation for customer loyalty in a way that resonates with their audience?  It should start with a sincere “thank you”, but that’s not where it should end.

Customer appreciation comes in many forms.  A quality product that won’t break or function poorly after the first time it’s used; first-rate service that handles difficult problems with as much grace and efficiency as it takes to process a simple order; or a spot-on gift that shows a keen understanding of the audience.

Those gifts can range from fun swag, to high end executive level offerings, or contributions to a favorite charity in the name of the customer.  In any case, the gift should represent a genuine show of thanks, and a discerning grasp of what matters to the recipient.

There’s no right or wrong way to show appreciation for your customers — as long as they see and value the gesture.  Thank you is where it starts.  Year-long attention to quality products and extraordinary service is how it should carry forward.