Many articles have been written about the decline of customer loyalty, and how frugal buyers are putting a higher priority on price. Fortunately for small business owners, the repeat customer is far from becoming extinct. In today’s highly competitive environment, every necessary step must be taken to ensure the relationship with your customer doesn’t end at the point-of-sale.

“You need to give your customers something of extra value if you want them to return,” says international hospitality consultant Linda Novey-White. “Look at your business like a customer would. What could you be doing better, and what is your competition doing better?”

Start by anticipating your customer’s needs. Think ahead to what the market will be demanding in the coming months and determine what you can do better. Also keep abreast of trends that may influence your customers’ purchasing decisions. They may alert you to the need to modify your offerings to respond to new regulatory requirements, or changes in preferred styles and formats.

You can also gain insights into customer needs simply by asking and, more importantly, listening. Too many businesses take it upon themselves to advertise the next big thing without considering whether their customers want it or not. And while everybody wants a good price, they want a good value even more. Listening to and acting on your customers’ needs and concerns will make a lasting impression on even the most meticulous comparison shopper.

Adding a personal touch will also forge a stronger bond between you and your customers. Casual conversations will yield important information such as birthdays, professional accomplishments, and family events that you can recognize with a card or other low-cost token of appreciation. Everyone appreciates a helpful reminder in this busy world, and a message about an upcoming event such as change in postage rates or a new industry requirement will cement your reputation as a go-to source for more than just your product or service.

It’s also helpful to regularly share news about your products or services, and the issues that affect their use. You can do this on your Web site, or via a customer e-newsletter. Just make sure your customers specifically request to be on your mailing list.

Finally, make sure you deliver what you promise. “Too many people offer hype and then don’t follow through,” Novey-White says. “Delivering a product or service that disappoints is the fastest way to lose your customers.”

SCORE provides free and confidential mentoring to individuals who want to start their own businesses and to current business owners who want to find ways to grow their business and increase profits. All SCORE Volunteers are experienced business professionals. Contact the Norfolk SCORE Chapter to schedule an appointment or, if you are interested in becoming a SCORE Volunteer, contact us at 455-9338.  Visit our website at scorehr.org or email us at admin@scorehr.org.