When was the last time you thanked your customers? We don't mean a casual thank you as you hand customers their merchandise or receipt. We're talking a genuine, unique, relevant and sincere "thank you" that tells your customers that you value and appreciate them for who they are as people. Being thankful and expressing your gratitude to your customers goes a long way toward improving relationships and your bottom line. It's good for your customers and you.

Saying Thank You Promotes Loyalty
Remember, your customers have a choice. They can go anywhere and get the services you offer. What makes you stand out? We think loyalty comes in part from your gratitude. Telling your customers that you're truly grateful for them helps them feel better about themselves. They want to come back to visit you because of how you make them feel. Sincere gratitude builds loyalty and helps your business grow.

Saying Thank You Improves the Customer Experience
According to a CEI survey, nearly 86 percent of consumers will pay more for a better customer experience. They want to know that they come first. When you greet them by name, provide assistance as they shop, value your customers as people and show gratitude, you improve their customer experience during and after the sale.

Saying Thank You Encourages Positive Word of Mouth
Thanking customers tells them that they made the right choice by visiting your store. People who feel good about shopping in your store will tell their friends. Those friends tell their friends, and the positive word of mouth cycle continues. That's how you gain new customers without spending big bucks on advertising, so improve your customer base and referrals thanks to positive word of mouth advertising that comes when you say thanks often.

Saying Thank You Nurtures Relationships
Why do customers keep visiting you instead of your competitors or big box stores? Usually,it's relationship. The employees and owner know them by name, greet them, help problem solve and in general value them as more than income. Being thankful for each person who walks in your doors, whether they window shop or buy out the store, nurture relationships today and into the future.

Saying Thank You Makes You Feel Good Do you remember how you felt the last time you thanked someone? Being thankful elevates your mood and improves your outlook. Instead of focusing on problems, you'll feel energized to look for solutions as you remain grateful to your customers.

We're big fans of showing thanks because it's polite. It's also one of the best tools for building relationships and making your customers feel appreciated and wanted. We encourage you to create a strategy that shows your customers how thankful you are for them. What can you do today to start showing gratitude?