Year Round Gratitude

The holiday season is upon us yet again. This is traditionally the time of year we think about being grateful for what we have; family, friends, our health -- and the customers who keep our businesses alive.

We should all take the time to show our customers just how important they are to us, how grateful we are that they've chosen us above all others. Sending holiday cards is the most popular expression of gratitude because it is well accepted. Our customers will know we care because we took the time to recognize them. They will feel important, thus reinforcing their loyalty to us. Having a solid connection with our customers in these challenging economic times is critical to the long-term success of any business.

There's a bonus to being grateful and showing our appreciation -- experiencing the uplifting feeling it creates. When we are happy, we are more alert, enthusiastic, determined and have more energy. These are all great qualities that can help us be more productive year round, so why limit ourselves to being grateful only during the holidays?

Take the time to celebrate your customers throughout the year. Send a "keep-in-touch" card every so often or a company-engraved gift such as pens, letter openers or mugs...or be more creative. Whatever you do will not only keep you connected with your customers it will remind them how important they are.

Start this new trend now, this season, by sending them a holiday greeting card. If you think there isn't enough time, keep in mind that New Year's cards don't have to be mailed before New Year's. And if you're still worried about the time crunch, remember you can always call on me to get those cards done for you now and year round.

WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEBSITE? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: © 2008 Virtual Assistant Kimberly McCloskey of Partners in Productivity publishes the newsletter "Productive Pointers" featuring articles on how we all can improve our personal and business efficiency. Get yours FREE at www.PartnersInProductivity.net.

Created By KIMBERLY MCCLOSKEY