This article was originally published in Real Estate Agent Magazine Twin Cities, written by Charity Malmberg, Founder and President of Trademark Title

 

It’s the season of change. You’re slowing down to admire the colors, getting warm clothes out of storage for the winter and hopefully taking a moment to give thanks. Thinking about what, and who you’re grateful for is a start, but showing and telling people you’re thankful for them is even better.

Showing your clients that you’re thankful for their business is part of creating a professional, memorable business reputation. In an industry where a good reputation often leads to more business, it’s worth your time to consider how taking a moment to creatively thank your clients, is building into the future of your business.

Take a minute out of your day to think about how you can show your past and current clients that you’re thankful for them. Check out these six creative ways to thank your clients, and be sure to include your business card with each of these ideas, so your current clients can spread the word about your professionalism and client care.

1. Fruit Bouquet
Flowers are a nice gesture, but a bouquet of fruit is much more unique and tasty! With chocolate dipped strawberries and pineapple pieces shaped like flowers, you’re showing your clients you care, and providing them a little snack to stay fueled while they unpack.

2. A bottle of Wine or Champagne
Another fun way to celebrate new adventures and big life changes, is popping open a bottle of wine or champagne. Having one waiting on your client’s new doorstep or in their entry way, is just a special way to say thanks and make their first moments in their new home memorable.

3. Local Coffee Shop Gift Card
Who doesn’t love getting to treat themselves to a gourmet coffee or luxury tea? Say thanks with a gift card to a coffee shop local to your clients’ new neighborhood, and include a little note encouraging them to take a break once and a while from the hustle of unpacking and house projects.

4. A Gift Card to a Local Hardware Store
Everyone has little projects and ideas for their new home, so any help with the expense is much appreciated. However, be sure you don’t communicate that their home is in dire need of repair, and include a little note with the gift card wishing them good times as they make their new house into their own version of home.

5. A List of Local Attractions
This gift takes a little more time and intention, but if you find yourself working in the same area much of the time, it could be easily repeated. Create a list of local attractions – restaurants, boutiques, theaters and more – and include a voucher or gift card to one such attraction. Be sure to include a little note thanking your client for their business, and welcoming them to their new neighborhood.

6. Simply Send a Card
The most basic and often overlooked way to say thanks is sending a handwritten card. Email thank you notes can feel impersonal and mass-produced, but sending a thank you that is both hand-selected and personalized speaks volumes of your client-care.

A Win-Win
Taking time to thank your clients is a win-win situation. It’s not just business etiquette or a kind gesture, it’s a way to show your clients how much you value their business while providing yet another reason for them to pass on your information to their family and friends.