We all forget our manners from time-to-time. Myself included! So I’m not trying to play Ms. Manners or even Ann Landers, but I do think it’s important to remember to say a full-hearted “Thank You” to your customers every once in a while. After all, a little thanks goes a long way!

Here are a few ways to say Thank You to your customers during this busy and stressful time of year:

Give Thanks In Honor of Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving is almost here (gasp!), and it’s the perfect occasion to reach out to your customers and show your appreciation. You can send an email, postcard, or even a Thank You shout-out on Facebook or Twitter! Just make sure the message comes from the heart. You don’t even need to include an offer or a free gift, the Thank You alone does the job.

Piggy Back Off Your Online Orders: A few months ago I wrote a blog post about getting ready for the holidays. Well, believe it or not, the holidays are just about here! One of the ideas in the post was to spice up your packaging by adding some extra goodies to it. You can also use your packages to say Thank You! This is especially useful this time of year, as online holiday sales continue to climb.

Here are a few examples of some great Thank Yous I received in packages so far this season: 

• J. Crew Thank You note: Simple, effective, and to-the-point.

• ModCloth surprise free gift and Thank You note: I don’t have an image of this, but I recently ordered a holiday gift from ModCloth, and in the box was an extra necklace in a package that read “Thank You.” Boy was I pleasantly surprised! They will definitely get my repeat business.

• Rue-La-La Thank You letter: They do a great job of spinning the delivery of your package as a beginning, rather than an end. The fuchsia envelope is eye-catching and inspiring.

Host an Event: Events are wonderful for meeting your customers face-to-face, and getting to know them on a personal level. You can send an email to your local customers and invite them to a holiday party or meet-and-greet in their honor! Be sure to foot the bill and have good food, drinks, and fun for all. Your customers will definitely feel appreciated!

A simple thank you is indeed a great way to build and nurture customer relationships. Have you thanked your customers lately?

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