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Often, a gesture of gratitude goes a long way for businesses. Being able to show that your brand is authentic is essential in building meaningful connections with customers. One great way to reach out to them is through social media. Our post on “Why Community Building is Vital for Social Media Success” shares how one in three people prefer using social media to reach out to businesses, so it’s important to give them the best service possible through this avenue. Simple ways, like replying or reacting to a comment on social media, can help humanise your brand and broaden your reach. By interacting with your audience, they can discover more reasons to come back to your business. Listed below are some tips on how you can thank your customers:
Identify opportunities for thanks
Businesses often conduct their customer deals in private, so when is it appropriate to express gratitude publicly? LHH’s tips on social media gratitude outlines how it’s a good time to give a shoutout when customers provide you with facts, ideas, or inspiration. When you read some insights or trends online, reference these in your own posts and acknowledge the origins of the idea. Make sure to ask for permission from your customers before posting to ensure they’re comfortable with it. In addition to this, you can also show your appreciation by re-sharing customers’ public content to your business’s account. Cyclist-oriented company Chrome Industries often gives shout-outs to customers who sport their jerseys on Instagram. By finding ways to show your thanks, you leave a lasting impression.
Create thank you videos
One of the best ways to show your appreciation for your customers is to post a video to thank them. Even just a 15-second appreciation video can give a good, personal touch. For small businesses, you can even opt to make it more special by thanking each customer by name (if they are willing to reveal it) to make a better connection. As CEOWorld Magazine reports on short-form video, short-form video content is more attention-grabbing and relatable, making it easier for consumers to understand and appreciate the message.
Consider having campaigns
Having social media campaigns are a great way to engage your audience and highlight your appreciation for your customers. For example, customers of UK beauty brand Beauty Pie had a chance to win a giveaway each month if they posted pictures of their purchases alongside the hashtag #postyourpie. This is a great way to incentivise a product-loving community, as not only do they get posts of appreciation for their efforts, but they also receive the opportunity to win prizes beyond the usual products and services.
Open your business for feedback
Aside from giving customers thanks for working with your brand, you can also use social media to get feedback from your customers. A study by Management & Science University has noted that making a good impression on your customers is essential in engaging them. When they receive great service, they are more likely to spread positive feedback and remain loyal customers of the business. In case customers mention an unsatisfactory experience, you can take the opportunity to thank them for their feedback and improve your business to better suit them in the future.
Appreciation is key when it comes to building brand loyalty and consistent engagement with your customers. Social media can help open opportunities for recognition, such as hosting appreciation campaigns or having feedback systems. By working on customer retention, your business can work towards reaching bigger goals and having larger audiences.