Keeping In Touch: Staying appropriately in front of Customers and Contacts

A business greeting card done right - and at the right time - can make a positive, lasting impression and help strengthen business relationships. So, when is it the right time to send a greeting card?

Follow these tips to ensure your timing is appropriate and effective with customers and other contacts.

Think Strategically. Develop a communication strategy that works for your business. What is the goal of your program? It could be to get new business leads, retain current customers, encourage a referral, or all of the above. Develop a timeline for planned communication to customers. Then, determine where business greeting cards can add to your program.

Make Special Occasions Special Again. Everyone appreciates having a special day acknowledged. Remember specific days and events throughout the year, such as work anniversaries or milestones, birthdays and holidays. Or, send a congratulatory card for achievements such as a promotion or a big sale, or life events such as a marriage or the birth of a child.

Get Creative. It doesn't have to be a holiday or special occasion to recognize how much a customer means to your business. Send a card to stay top-of-mind with customers and prospects. A simple thank you card with, "Thanks for your business," can go a long way.

Offer an Incentive. Greeting cards are a great vehicle for delivering special offers or incentives to your customers. Re-engage and retain customers with a Hallmark Business Expressions greeting card and include a special offer or invitation to try a new product or service, attend an open house or seminar, or visit a website.

Know What to Say. Be sure to add your personal touch. If you can, write a note to the recipient. Here are some sample messages you can use:

• Thank a customer with, "Your confidence in our company means a lot. Thanks for calling us."
• Stay in touch by saying, "I was looking through my files and realized we haven't talked in a while. Hope you're having a terrific summer."
• Ask for a referral with "I really enjoyed working with you on this project. If I can be of service to you or any of your colleagues, please don't hesitate to call me or pass my name along!"

Find more sample messages here. Remember, building and sustaining business relationships requires ongoing communication. By following these tips, you'll build rapport and reinforce connections with the people who matter most to your business.

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