From giving people access to vast amounts of information at their fingertips to providing them with an infinite list of products and services, it is an understatement to say that the internet has drastically changed society. With the digital age in full swing, companies are seeing their customers become more active in the sales process: no longer can people simply be herded into a sales funnel. Customers now have a voice and they’re able to demand what they want when they want it.
So, what does this mean for your company? Now, more than ever, customer-centricity should be an important part of any marketing strategy. One of the most effective ways to show customers that you care is through customer appreciation events. While free products and the occasional mention on social media might be easier, client appreciation events are more personal and show greater sincerity – two traits that today’s customers appreciate from companies.
Maintaining Loyalty
Certain marketing analysts believe that building a brand is more than just pushing a product or service, it’s about creating a culture. Customers tend to use brands as a means to express their personality. So, gathering your customers at an event that shines the spotlight on them not only shows your appreciation, it also solidifies your brand as a culture and a lifestyle.
On average, retaining a customer is cheaper than attracting a new one (although the latter effort is also important). For example, when a restaurant opens for the first time, it must invest in banners, digital media posts, ads, and other marketing collaterals.
However, once they establish regularity in their customer base, all the restaurant has to do is continue giving great service and change things up occasionally.
Loyal customers are a steady source of income and they’re also great advertisements.
Networking Opportunities
Customer appreciation events also serve another purpose: networking. By and large, a person would feel awkward, even uncomfortable, with the idea of attending a party alone. Chances are, a person invited to a party will bring someone with them so as not to be alone in a room full of strangers. This brings opportunities to generate new business to the table.
Customer appreciation events do double duty by fostering the loyalty of an existing customer and leaving a memorable impression on the guests they brought. These guests will see the perks of being a loyal customer and will be all the more excited to give you business. If your event is aesthetically-unique, customers will post about it on social media and further your reach, improve your reputation, and give your brand positive visibility.
Creating unique, visually stunning, and more importantly, fun customer appreciation events require skill, passion, and an understanding of the intricacies involved in live events. MTI Events has been helping companies build and grow for over 30 years, and we’ve held successful events in over 40 countries across 6 continents. Learn more about us, what we do, and how we can help you, by contacting us today!
