Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of connecting with those who have chosen to do business with my firm, as well as those considering our proposals. For example, each year, we send out custom holiday cards to past, present and potential clients, thanking them for their business and looking forward to a continued relationship. This year in particular, we wanted to show clients that they had become a part of our family, and how vested in their success we are, long-term.
In early and mid-2009, budgets were tight, stress was at an all-time high, and Liqui-Site was entrusted with helping clients succeed despite that pesky little thing called “a recession”. (I’m not suggesting it’s over by any means, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.) To help our clients weather the storm and emerge with an even stronger brand, we utilized affordable inbound marketing strategies, overhauled websites and re-branded entire organizations. Our clients entrusted us with their hard-earned money, and we implemented effective, budget-friendly solutions. A win-win in an otherwise losing economy.
So, this Holiday Season, we designed cards and t-shirts for our clients that spoke to both their agility and our expertise: “Design. Develop. Constantly Evolve.” It’s been our tagline since 2003, but was poignant this year more than ever before. The holiday gifts were a hit, as we started getting emails and phone calls upon delivery. Simply put, it made us all feel good to give and reconnect. (That’s also why we decided to launch our annual Pro Bono Promo contest, to give a non-profit organization in need a new website.)
It’s certainly not a very ‘corporate’ ideal, but then again, we’ve never been a stereotypical corporation. Admittedly, at one point early on, I believed that the traditional corporate persona was the route to success, but I was wrong! People are people, and whether a creative firm is hired to develop a brand identity or a website, that firm is responsible for developing an intimate relationship with the brand – and the people behind it. Our new site focuses on helping our clients build trust with their customers, but we need our clients to first trust us. We appreciate their business, and they appreciate the stability they’ve achieved during a difficult year. It just goes to show you that a little investment in people goes a long way.
Connecting with clients all year round is vitally important. We’re just reminded of its importance during the holidays because we’re also connecting with family, celebrating with friends and looking forward to the possibilities that the New Year brings. So, if you change one thing about your business in 2010, be sure to connect with your clients and customers more often – especially in ways that demonstrate your commitment to their success. The fact is, it’s not about getting paid for every minute you clock. It all comes down to measurable results and the simple human nature of connection.
From our family to yours, Happy Holidays.
