All Relationships Take Work– Even Your Client Relationships
Think of your client relationships as like a friendship. “Losing touch” with a friend happens when you haven’t heard or thought about that friend in a while, right? You’re not as “close” as you used to be because a literal physical and emotional space has grown between you. Unfortunately, when you “lose touch” with a client, it means less work for you. In order to maintain a healthy relationship with a client, you need to maintain that relationship. This doesn’t mean inviting your client to a spa day or knitting them a sweater. It does, however, require maintenance. Some of this can be easily done through simple correspondence.
“Thank You” Goes a Long Way
One of the easiest and fastest ways to maintain great client relationships is to say a simple “thank you.” Send a quick email for something minor or regular, such as a quick “Just wanted to let you know we did receive your payment on Friday. Thanks! Have a great week.” This message is friendly, but it doesn’t waste the client’s time. However, it doesn’t ignore the fact that the client sent you a payment, and you are appreciative. It acknowledges the client’s action in an appreciative manner.
If your client has done something out of their way or something you want to acknowledge in a more former way, send a thank-you card. Yes, with a stamp. Don’t whine. While it may be easier to send off a quick email, your client will appreciate the time you took to write the note. Keep it professional. Your clients probably won’t be impressed with a cartoon cat holding a “Thank You” balloon.
Send “Season’s Greetings” cards to your customers if you feel comfortable doing so. Send a birthday card. Every time your client thinks of you, they’ll be thinking of your business, too.