As a small business owner, you know that it takes more than just providing a good product or service to succeed. To create a sustainable base of repeat customers, you also need to build customer loyalty. But how do you go about doing that? 

In this blog post, we'll explore six practical ways to build customer loyalty for your small business. By implementing even just a few of these strategies, you can start seeing results in the form of increased sales and happy customers who keep coming back! 

1. Start with a great product or service that meets customer needs.

Having a great product or service that meets customer needs is the foundation of any successful small business. In fact, a strong product or service offering is often the driving force for building up a steady customer base. After all, if customers don't see the value in what you’re selling, it’s going to be difficult to engage them. 

Developing a good product or service and seeing how the market responds should be your first step toward building customer loyalty. With an offering that customers appreciate, you can use various methods to grow your customer numbers, such as leveraging marketing strategies and networking opportunities, gaining referrals from existing customers, and implementing loyalty programs to keep them coming back for more.

2. Train your employees to be friendly and helpful. 

To ensure that your customers have the best possible experience, it’s important to have a friendly and helpful staff. Training your team members on how to assist customers in a positive manner can go a long way toward building relationships between your business and its patrons. 

Employees who understand how to interact appropriately with customers can create an environment where customers feel welcome and valued. Implementing these practices into your workforce is essential when creating loyal shoppers that can help sustain your small business for years to come. 

3. Show your appreciation for your customers through discounts or rewards.

Offering discounts or coupons to customers who purchase frequently is a great way to help small businesses grow their customer base. By providing these discounts and coupons, small businesses are showing their appreciation for their loyal customers while also encouraging them to shop more often.

Everyone loves a good deal, and this strategy will reward customers who keep coming back. It will also make it easier for new customers to return as well. When done properly, encouraging frequent shoppers with discounts or coupons can be an excellent way for businesses to build up a loyal customer base that not only keeps shopping but also encourages others to visit their business too. 

4. Ask for feedback from customers so you can improve your business.

As a small business owner, fostering a strong relationship with your shoppers is key to ensuring long-term success. Another way to improve your relationship even further, while also ensuring that your business is heading in the right direction, is by asking for feedback from those you serve. This will allow you to identify areas of improvement within your business and make adjustments accordingly, thus propelling your business even further toward a successful future. Asking customers for their opinions can also show them that their views matter and that they are valued, which may help create repeat patronage down the line. So, when looking at ways to encourage customer loyalty and grow as a small business, ask for feedback from those who use your services. You never know what you might find out!

5. Keep in touch with customers through social media or email newsletters.

Capitalizing on social media and email newsletters is a great way for small businesses to stay in touch with their customers. Using these outlets, businesses can build relationships and gain a steady shopper base. Additionally, staying connected to customers keeps them up to date on any promotions or changes that the company might be making. With a bit of effort, using social media and email newsletters, small businesses can establish customer loyalty and keep their business moving in a successful direction.

6. How to build customer loyalty with Acima.

Acima Leasing provides payment options* for customers who may not qualify for financing. Our flexible payment options* make it easier for customers to obtain the products they need, while providing businesses with an opportunity to expand their customer base. By working with Acima Leasing, you can give your customers access to payment options* they may not have had before. In this way, you’ll become a business they know they can rely on and return to. 

Visit our website to learn more about how we can help your business grow. You can also check out this resource page as well as our FAQs to learn more about what Acima can offer your customers. By following these tips, you can build great customer loyalty for your small business. 

You'll be on your way to success in no time! 

Common Questions About Building Customer Loyalty 

How can Acima help my business expand its customer base? 

Acima Leasing provides flexible payment options* to customers who may not have access to financing, thus allowing your business to reach new customers and expand its base of shoppers. 

What are some ways small businesses can stay in touch with their customers? 

Small businesses can maintain relationships with their customers by utilizing marketing and social media. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and other social media platforms, as well as email newsletters are a few methods to explore. These outlets allow businesses to build relationships with their customers and keep them up to date on any changes or promotions the company may be offering. If your business works with Acima Leasing, there are customizable materials for use on the merchant portal. Login here to see more resources available for your business. 

What are some tips for getting feedback from customers? 

Some tips for getting feedback from customers include offering rewards to those who provide feedback, asking for business input by creating a short and succinct survey, and being active on social media and responding to customers’ comments and reviews. Additionally, you can engage in conversations with customers whenever they visit your business or ask for feedback after an interaction.