The Art of Customer Retention and Contacting Past Clients

How many times do you realize you haven't seen a customer or client recently ? Most business owners do not follow up with previous purchasers because they are not sure how to do so without sounding like a used car salesman. However, people are busy today, often multi-tasking or buying from the internet and it's important to have a follow up program to get back in touch with people. They probably were not unhappy with your services or products but just have been strapped for time between work and family life.

What is a nice way to reach someone without "selling"? It is always nice to send a personal note and an article of something you know would interest the person. If you know they are fascinated with rock climbing and you just read a good article on that, pop it in the mail without a friendly note.

If you have their e-mail or birthday on file, be sure to send out a birthday card to them and you can include a coupon or special. Sending a hand-written envelope is a nice touch and also often easier for people than to deal with computers and printers.

For a service you provide you can offer a free 30 minute consult (ie financial, legal , counseling ). People also love to receive something educational in the mail that will teach them something new. Care is important and sometimes follow up gets overlooked due to difficulties in knowing how to carry it out. Think of what you like to get in the mail and how you respond to genuine concern.

Dee Cohen is a licensed social worker and author of How to Stay Balanced During Stressful Situations. Businesses and associations utilize her booklet to thank customers, clients and employees. Visit Stress Reduction Booklets to learn non-aggressive ways to reach former customers at http://www.outside-the-box.net