"Success is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration." - Thomas Edison
It is very true that many people can have a great idea, but without a solid plan to implement that idea -- in a profitable way -- the idea will just stay a dream. For example, sending out notes or cards to clients to boost return visits and referrals is not a new idea.
"People may forget what you tell them, but they will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou
It has been known as a wonderfully personal touch to receive a thank you or business card from a stylist (who is often knows more clients than some of their friends) or a massage therapist (who often knows more about clients stress levels than they do). Yet, so few spas and salons actually regularly act on this simple customer service practice. [Personally - I have never received a personal card from any of my numerous spa visits. It would make a huge impression if I did.]
I asked some clients who agree with the idea, but haven't yet implemented a solid plan to do this and here is what I heard:
- I am not that organized
- I don't have the time (or staff doesn't have time) to write out the cards
- I'd have to invest in a lot of generic looking cards -- the printing is too expensive.
- I'm don't know what to write don't want to be "fake" with a canned pre-printed card.
Trust me, I feel your pain! This is why I created the Loyalty Builder System...it doesn't require access to a computer and goes wherever you go. While clients that use this system like it, but have shared that deciding on the cards to send is the biggest hurdle. And the ever changing cost of postage is also a pain. So I have been searching for other options - both for my own business and as a way to help salons, spas, solo estheticians and LMTs.
I found this neat service that allows you to set up and automatically send postcards, birthday cards, thank you cards or cards any other reason. You don't need to pre-purchase cards or postage -- and you could customize every one with your own handwriting and a personal note. You can even include gift cards to Starbucks or stores like The Gap!
It's called Send Out Cards.
What I like best about it...it takes about 2 minutes to mail a personalized, physical card. And once I set it up all the birthdays for clients, family & friends -- I don't have to worry about sending a card (or a gift card.)
If you want to try it out, you can send out two cards -- for free, my treat -- to anyone. Send one to yourself, your spouse or a birthday card to a friend...or anyone you want.
Just go to Send Out Cards and create your account. [If you have any trouble, just give me a call.]
Some ideas on how you can have this automated system work for you:
- Set up automated birthday cards to clients. Include a personal message and birthday gift of a upgraded services or free product for their next visit. (No discount coupons!)
- Use to send out customized postcardsabout an event or promotion. (You can use their templates or upload your own. I can help write and create the graphics for you.)
- After a first client visit, send a personal thank you. Set up their automatic birthday card at the same time.
- Run a report for previous clients that you haven't seen for 2 months and send them a card.
- Launch your referral program and send out postcards that can be brought in by a friend to give the client a bonus.
- Send a gift card ($10) to your top 20% clients to say thank you.
These are just a few ideas to get started, I'm sure you have some ideas of your own.
Good luck and let me know your thoughts on this one!
Comments