Give ‘em Some Candy

Some time ago I read that when waiters and waitresses leave mints with the check their tips go up.  Spend a couple of dollars on candy to leave with the check and you make it back in one or two customers.  Pretty simple.

Are you leaving candy for your customers?  Are you giving them something extra that is unexpected, above and beyond what they asked for?

By doing that little extra it could increase your sale, create repeat business, or even close that difficult customer.  Here are some ideas for candy you can leave with your customers and prospects.

Real Estate, Insurance, & anyone dealing with homeowners or individual consumers—Often, when dealing with these customers they have their children along, so give the kids something to do that allows you to make your presentation with minimal interruptions. 

Coloring books are excellent for young children, as are other games or toys (that just happen to be imprinted with your name & logo).  Older children might enjoy a yo-yo or Frisbee, or similar distraction.

The goal is to have the child (children) distracted so that you and the parents can discuss your product/service in relative peace.  The parents appreciate having the ability to focus on you, and they appreciate the fact that you gave their offspring a gift. 

Business-to-Business—Actually, a coffee mug, dish, or apothecary jar filled with candy or mints is a good offering. 

Whatever you give to a business person should be something they would appreciate and use.  Without those two elements your “candy” will be quickly forgotten.

Non-Physical Candy—Giving candy doesn’t have to be candy, or a treat, or gift; it can be other things as well.  The “candy” can be doing something extra for the client that is well outside the norm.  If you or your company has a blog, sing the praises of your customer in the blog, and be sure to send a link to your customer so they can see and appreciate your comments. 

If you publish a newsletter or e-zine talk about your customer there, but again, be sure to send them a copy so that they will know about and appreciate your extra effort.  (I’ve done this for a few individuals and most have been flattered that I talked about them.)

Perhaps you know someone that they want/need to meet, then a personal introduction would be some great “candy”.

Use your imagination and see what you can come up with in the way of new and unique candy.

That’s my 2 cents.

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