With Thanksgiving just a couple of weeks away, we wanted to remind you that gratitude should be a year-round habit. Showing your clients you appreciate them is the first and most important step in keeping your relationships healthy and resilient.
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: the easiest way for independent insurance agents to build better relationships with clients is to call them before they need you. With just a couple of quick phone calls a week, you could effectively touch base with every client you support on a regular basis - just to say, “Thanks!” with a follow up, “How can I help?”
As more and more people rely on email and social media for communications, a handwritten thank you note has become a treasure. If you keep a stack of attractively designed cards lying around the office, you could take those spare moments to pen a personalized note of gratitude to your clients. It doesn’t need to be long - a sentence or two will suffice - but do identify something about the particular client that makes them special. It shows that you pay attention and that you recognize each of your clients as a unique individuals - not just accounts.
There are more small businesses operating today than ever, and many still rely on word of mouth for a large bulk of their customer base. If you have an opportunity to recommend one of your client’s shops or services, do it! In fact, why not keep a few of your client’s business cards on hand for just such an occasion?
To make it easier on you, keep a small file box divided by business categories and stash cards in there. When another client is discussing roof repairs, all you have to do is flip through your collection for a general contractor, and - voila! - you’ve not only shown your appreciation and respect, you’ve helped two clients with one recommendation!
If you don’t have an opportunity to connect with clients in this more personal way, you could accomplish the same goal by endorsing clients’ skills on LinkedIn.
Never miss a chance to wish a client happy birthday or to congratulate them on that new job or new addition to the family. The best way to stay on top of these little victories is by connecting with clients on social media. Facebook is great for reminding you about birthdays and personal anniversaries, for example, and LinkedIn will keep you up-to-date on clients’ job changes, anniversaries, and promotions.
These social media platforms offer a never-before-imagined window into the lives and minds of clients, and independent insurance agents can take advantage without much effort. For added effect, look to Giphy.com when you want to celebrate a client: nothing says hip and modern as easily as a well-placed gif.
via GIPHY
When you really want to make an impression, pamper your clients. This could be something as extravagant as tickets to a sports event or movie, or something as low-key as a little insurance agency swag. If you’re feeling domestic, you could bake up cookies or a meal for a client going through a rough patch. If you never feel domestic, you could send along a useful gift card to help out.
If you’re struggling to market your independent insurance agency, get in touch with the insurance marketing specialists at AgenciesOnline. We work with agents just like you to make sure your message is getting to the right prospects at the right time - right now!
