Gratitude as a Business Strategy

“Having gratitude as a business strategy means putting people before money. It means consistently thanking and celebrating your clients, customers, and community. Gratitude should be the cornerstone of your business. Make gratitude part of your mission and brand values, let it be the heart of your company culture…” –Wendy de Jong, Founder of The Gratefulist

Being grateful isn’t something that should be reserved just for your loved ones on Valentine’s Day or the holiday season. While it may seem a strange concept in the corporate world, everyone needs to feel appreciated. Expressing gratitude as a business strategy is highly effective, not only for your employees, but also for your clients. As a marketing professional, you are likely aware of how vital it is to know your demographic. It is equally as important to show your clients appreciation.

 

Humanising Your Marketing

We’ve previously discussed the concept of gratitude, and continue to do so, because it will truly improve your success as a company. The best marketing strategy is one filled with thankfulness. Rather than solely focusing on the B2B or B2C sales approach, think about marketing with an H2H philosophy.

When you break things down to a human-to-human method, you recognise your clients as people, not as piggy banks. Treating others as living, breathing, feeling creatures is generally a great idea. However, connecting with your clients on an emotional level will help them form a positive view of your company. It will also develop customer loyalty. Think about it. Wouldn’t you rather position yourself as a generous, caring business rather than a mediocre one doing business just for the paycheck?

 

Gratitude as a Business Strategy

“Research shows that customers spend more, employees accomplish more, and vendors are more likely to pay on time, if they receive regular gratitude.” –Steve Bookbinder, CEO of DM Training

Yes, you read that correctly. Gratitude is an excellent marketing strategy, and one that will help you improve your ROI. There are many ways that you can express your appreciation to your loyal clients throughout the year. Whether you are looking for thank you gift ideas or client appreciation gifts, we’re here to help you prepare for corporate giving.  The following are just a few ways to show your clients gratitude:

 

Voice your gratitude with simple thankfulness

• Sending handwritten thank you or “just because” notes

• Extending your recognition on social media, celebrating your clients’ accolades and opinions

• Nurturing your clients, working just as hard to keep them happy as you did to initially win them over

Show appreciation with personalised gifts

• Giving individualised birthday and Christmas presents

• Sending thank you for your purchase gifts on large orders

Help your clients grow along with you

• Providing exclusive client access to informational blog posts and webinars

• Referring new customers to your best B2B clients

There are so many ways to show your clients gratitude while integrating appreciation into your business strategy. For more ideas, get in touch with us so we can help you build your company with loyal clientele!

Have you implemented gratitude as part of your marketing strategy? What has been most successful for you? Let us know in the comments below!