Ahwatukee Living’s Ask the Experts

« The Onion Filled Pinata | Index | 50 years - What's Your Secret? »

Q1, 2005 Focus

Last quarter I introduced some thoughts on customer service. What businesses really delivered the goods during the holidays? Where did I find the friendliest, most helpful sales people? What businesses am I recommending to friends and business associates? Who said “Thank You” in a memorable way?

I discovered Camille’s Collection, a Scottsdale, Arizona-based home décor business last year. Camille Matthews and her husband and business partner, Jim, opened the doors to their new showroom and introduced new clients to their business during a series of “design for everyone” seminars last fall. Their space is filled with finds for every room in your home. Their creative talents spill freely. Prices on accessories and design consultation are truly affordable. Camille and her staff help make you feel completely at home – and help you find the perfect accessories for any space in your home.

The best ‘Thank You’ -- Camille sent me a hand-written thank you card the day after I attended her store’s holiday open house. I had spent less than $50 on a couple gifts. Wow. What a way to invite me back…

Many other businesses in my Rolodex find equally effective ways of saying thanks – maybe near year-end for business throughout the year, or as a way of staying in touch during the year. Never underestimate the power of this message. Make a commitment to say ‘Thank You!’ to all your customers in a memorable way this year. You’ll never regret the small amount of time this takes.

Online? My gift list took me to www.UncommonGoods.com, Red Envelope, Duluth Trading Company, www.gaiam.com, Hold Everything, and www.katespaperie.com and several independent florists. All ensured my gift buying was convenient and secure. Items were in stock and ready for shipping. I received e-mail thank you notes from several, along with promotion codes for my next online shopping visit. Are they confident they’ll see my shopping cart again? You bet.

How do you tell your customers you appreciate their business? Are you looking for creative ways to say ‘Thanks for choosing us…’? Send me an e-mail. jill@jmvcommunications.com.

Posted on January 5, 2005