How to thank clients for their business: strategies to build stronger relationships
Building strong relationships with clients is key to the success of any business. A heartfelt thank you can go a long way in showing your appreciation, fostering loyalty, and even encouraging referrals. In this article, I’m sharing some effective strategies on how to thank clients for their business and make them feel valued.
1. Send a personalised thank-you note
A handwritten or personalised thank-you note adds a thoughtful touch that emails or texts often lack. It’s a small gesture that can make a big impact, showing your client that their business genuinely matters to you. Make it specific by mentioning what you enjoyed about working with them or how their project inspired you. I do this all the time at KSD, here’s an example of a message I’ve sent to one of my clients…
Example:
"Dear Andy, working on the Anagram Audio Squarespace e-commerce website was a joy. Your enthusiasm and clear vision to bring the website to life was a pleasure to collaborate with. Thank you for choosing KSD to bring it to life."
An extra touch would be to send it on a branded card or postcard.
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2. Offer exclusive discounts or promotions
Rewarding your clients with a special discount or exclusive offer is a practical way to express gratitude. Whether it’s a discount on their next purchase or early access to a new product or service, it makes them feel appreciated while encouraging repeat business.
Example:
"Hey Marine, To show how much I appreciate working with you, I’d like to offer MWA Financial 10% off their next branding or collateral update. Use the code KSDTHANKYOU when you book your next project."
Additional Example:
"As a thank you for your support, we’re excited to offer you 20% off your next order. Simply use the code THANKYOU20 at checkout!"
3. Feature clients on your platforms
Celebrating your clients by featuring them on your website (as a case study or testimonial - with their permission), social media, or newsletter is a great way to thank clients for their business.
This not only acknowledges their trust in your services but also helps to promote their business to a wider audience.
Example:
"This month’s Project Highlight is Articulate! It was great to work with Chloe again to redesign the Articulate website. Due to the nature of the bespoke elements, it was also really great to conduct a handover training session which will help them to manage the site themselves"
4. Send thoughtful gifts
Ahh, I love thanking my clients with gifts! It’s such a personal yet thoughtful thing to do, and it doesn’t have to break the bank. My biggest tip here would be to choose items that are relevant to your client’s interests or business. For instance, a personalised calendar, branded stationery, or even a box of locally sourced goodies can show that you’ve put thought into the gesture.
Example: Sending a beautifully packaged notebook with the client’s logo embossed, accompanied by a note saying, "We hope this inspires your next big idea. Thank you for letting KSD be part of your journey!" - I did this for a client a while back and the surprise she received was amazing, especially as the logo was something we’d worked together on!
Additional Example: A local photographer might send a branded USB drive in elegant packaging along with a handwritten thank-you card to their wedding clients.
5. Host a client appreciation event
If your budget allows, consider hosting an event to thank your clients in person. It could be a small gathering, an online webinar, or an exclusive workshop. Use this opportunity to strengthen your relationships with your clients. You could also also let them bring a plus one which makes the conversation pool deeper!
Example:
"Join us for the launch of our new visual brand identity! This is our way of saying thanks for your trust and for supporting us!"
Additional Example:
"Join us for a free virtual workshop on SEO basics next Friday – exclusively for our valued Squarespace clients! Register now to secure your spot."
6. Share a public thank you
Use your social media or blog to publicly thank your clients. A simple post or shout-out acknowledging their support can help them feel appreciated while also showcasing your client-centric approach to a broader audience.
Example:
"A huge thank you to all our incredible clients who made this year unforgettable! Here’s to creating more meaningful designs and growing businesses together in the year ahead."
Additional Example:
"A huge thank you to all our clients who made this year so incredible! We’re grateful for your trust and support – here’s to more amazing projects together in the future."
7. Provide an unexpected upgrade
Surprise your clients with a complimentary upgrade or added value. For example, I always include an extra feature, a simple website style guide page, when I design and build a new Squarespace website, and in the past I’ve included extra SEO audits to the client websites too!
You could also include an additional service or a free resource that enhances their experience with your business. These surprises create a lasting impression.
Example:
"As a bonus, we’ve added a custom website style guide page to your Squarespace site to help you maintain the site with ease going forward."
Additional Example:
"I’ve added an extra SEO audit to your package at no extra cost to ensure your site gets the visibility it deserves."
8. Ask for feedback and implement changes
Thanking your clients can also be as simple as listening to their feedback and showing that you value their opinions. Implementing their suggestions demonstrates that you’re committed to improving your service for them and future clients.
Example:
"Thank you for your suggestion about adding more payment options. We’ve now integrated PayPal to make the checkout process smoother for you."
Why thanking your clients matters
To be honest, thanking clients for their business not only strengthens your relationship with them but can also set you apart from competitors. Plus, it’s such a lovely thing to do.
Final thoughts
Saying thank you isn’t just a nice thing to do – it’s a strategic move that fosters trust, builds loyalty, and leaves a positive impression. By incorporating these strategies, you’ll create lasting connections that benefit both you and your clients.
