Your customers drive your business, which is why it’s so important to note how they interact with your brand. Don’t just reach out to them when you want their business; find ways to continuously show them you care. Connect with customers through customized interactions and active responses. You should be reaching customers where they are (e.g., face to face, phone, social media). Show customers that you appreciate them, and elicit feedback through customer surveys.

Here are 10 effective ways to connect with your customers and build lasting relationships that can keep them loyal to your brand:

• Don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach: Customizing your user interactions improves relevance and authenticity.
• Respond to concerns: Responding to customer concerns builds trust.
• Go above and beyond: Going above and beyond for customers can increase their perception and loyalty to your business.
• Follow up: Following up with customers communicates to them that they matter, and it helps you identify poor customer experiences.
• Keep it personal, not transactional: Speaking to your customers in a conversational and personal tone can improve their perception of your brand.
• Focus on face-to-face interactions: Use a customer’s preferred method of communication to maintain a positive relationship.
• Be active on social media: Create social media accounts on the platforms where your customers are. Respond quickly to questions and concerns that come in from customers through these channels
• Grow with your current clients in mind: Prioritizing your existing customers over the acquisition of potential customers is a great way to build long-term loyalty.
• Show your appreciation: Showing customers that you appreciate them can improve their connection to your brand.
• Survey your customers: Use customer surveys to gain customer insight and improve your offerings.