Consistent Clients – Real Estate Marketing

One of my recent posts created a bit of stir. I wrote about rewarding your referral sources (and of course this means clients, too). Apparently some people feel acknowledgement and thanks in the form of cards and gifts can be misconstrued as a bribe.

Let’s shift that thinking. Acknowledging both clients and referral sources is just plain good business. It’s part of the relationship building process. So, if you’re going to consider sending cards or giving gifts, consider it an ethical bribe. Truly, giving thanks isn’t really a bribe, it’s an act of appreciation.

Here are some guidelines that might help you out.

• When a client (or referral source) refers you a client, it’s completely acceptable to reward the behavior!
• A gift should be given when you’d like to acknowledge appreciation and without expectation of a return gift
• Gifts could range in value of $25-$50 (depending on your association rules and regulations) and should provide an appropriate message without appearing to bribe your client.

Technorati Tags: Rich Rogala, Real Estate Marketing, Referrals, Thanking Clients