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It’s a bit of a shame that some companies feel it isn’t necessary to say “thank you” to customers on a regular basis. If you think the delivery of your products and services is enough to keep your customers coming back, then it may be time to rethink your public relations activities, and understand why thanking customers should be a regular part of your customer-service process.

Think of how you personally feel when you receive an unexpected gift or a word of thanks. For most people, it gives them a feeling of being appreciated and of being noticed.

Christmas is the perfect time of year to say “thank you” to your clients, customers and staff. Even if 2009 hasn’t been your most profitable year, there is ALWAYS enough money in the budget to send Christmas cards or small gifts to your customers and suppliers, or to afford a small party to acknowledge your hardworking staff who make it all happen for you on a daily basis. If your staff are already feeling uneasy about the security of their jobs in 2010, nothing will send a bigger negative signal than forgetting to say “thank you” during the festive season.

Most companies are not unique. We all have competitors; some that may perform even better than ourselves. Use Christmas as the perfect excuse to re-establish yourself in your client’s minds as their supplier of choice; all for as little as the cost of a card and a stamp! So, don’t be complacent; it isn’t too late to show your appreciation, and be sure to put this valuable public relations activity on your regular to-do list in 2010.