Attracting new customers requires a great deal of effort so you want to keep them as long as possible once you’ve attained them.  One thing that can help keep your customers happy is good communication.  You will want to keep your customer in mind at each stage of the relationship and let them know they are appreciated – before the sale, as you’re reaching a deal, and after the sale – make sure they receive your attention and let them know you understand their needs.

• Before the sale. Find out what your customer’s needs are. If you work in a retail environment good communication entails learning customer preferences and greeting them by name. Make sure your employees are well informed and ready to answer questions, suggest new products and offer assistance.  If you work in a non-retail setting take the opportunity to build relationships with prospective customers by making regular calls or visits even if a sale is not expected in the near future.

• Making the sale. Keep a customer loyal and happy by maintaining honest communication at all times. Lay out all terms & conditions up front and avoid over-promising which will lead to disappointment later on.

• After the sale. Following the sale, check in with your customer. Find out if they are satisfied with everything and let them know they are appreciated. Should the customer have a complaint, take the opportunity to deal with the issue.

A positive experience is an important part of the buying process.  Great communication will complement your product or service and keep customers coming back.