The best client is always a repeat client. As long as you can keep them coming back, you know that you are doing a great job. Repeat clients are also easier to work for than new clients, because in most cases, you already know what they expect from you, and what it takes to satisfy them. Unfortunately, many business owners fail to realize that it is much easier and cheaper to keep a client than it is to find a new one. There are so many small things that you can do to keep a client coming back. Here are a few ideas that you can use.

•Make sure that the client is more than 100% satisfied with your work the first time around. Over deliver on your promises. Make sure that you beat deadlines and keep the client informed every step of the way. Be quick to answer phone calls and emails. Make sure that you really listen to what your clients tell you.

•Once the initial job is over, write the client a nice note or email, letting them know that you enjoyed working with them, and that you hope to work with them again in the future. Include your contact information in the note. Also, let them know that if they have any problems or questions concerning the work that you’ve just completed that you will be there for them.

•Send out periodic notes to the client. Tell them about any changes in your business or specials that you have going on. Remind them that you are there. Be careful here. You don’t want to bug them. You definitely don’t want to spam them!

•Remember dates that are important to your clients. Birthdays, anniversaries, children’s activities. Ask how loved ones are doing. Send cards, and even flowers, at appropriate times. Again, be careful here. Don’t give the client the feeling that him and his family are being stalked!

•Work to develop a social relationship with your client if it is possible. Why shouldn’t you? If you liked them enough to want to work for them again, there is no reason why you shouldn’t cultivate a social relationship with them, even if it is just by phone or email. This doesn’t mean that you have to fall in love with them. This means that while you discuss business with them, you also have friendly, non-business related conversations with them. Invite their family over for dinner occasionally, if possible.

Every person is an individual, and should be treated as such - even clients. Find out as much as you can about each client, and pay close attention to their personalities, likes and dislikes, and overall attitude. When you pay attention, you will come up with original ways to keep each individual client coming back to you again and again.