When small-business owner Beth Davidson wants to thank customers for their patronage, the owner of Dragonfly Shops & Gardens believes in making the acknowledgment public—often through social media.

“If it’s appropriate, I try to thank people in a way that is most beneficial to them,” says Davidson, whose boutique retail shop in Orange, California, offers home and garden items, personal goods like clothing and jewelry, and a variety of classes. “Recently, I did a shout-out on Facebook about a customer who does wedding photography and recommended her services.”

Smart business owners know that thanking customers is not only polite—it’s also good business. When those thank-yous are clever and innovative, the impact is even greater. Realtor Kathy McCarthy agrees. She invests a lot of time in creative client recognition.

5 Creative Ways to Thank Customers

In honor of National Customer Service Week, consider the following inventive ways to spotlight your clients:

1. Thank Them Exponentially

• Use social media to publicly acknowledge your customers.
• Feature their business or talents when appropriate.
• Take time to learn about your customers through casual conversations.

“Chit-chat reveals a great deal,” says Davidson. “You may discover they own a studio, sell insurance, or are collectors of your goods.”

2. Throw a Party

• Host introduction parties for new clients.
• Invite past clients and local professionals who could benefit from the networking.
• Create an environment where connections are naturally made.

3. Create a Customer “Wall of Fame”

• Display photos of customers in matching frames on a dedicated wall.
• For shy clients, use name plaques instead of photos.
• Consider creating a virtual “Wall of Fame” on your website.

4. Write About Your Customers

• Interview loyal clients for features in your company newsletter.
• Include insights into their hobbies, careers, and feedback on your services.
• Encourage sharing—customers love reading about themselves and will likely pass it on.

5. Create a Company Video

• Use video content to tell your brand’s story and include testimonials from loyal customers.
• Highlight their anecdotes and reasons for continuing to support your business.
• Distribute the video via email, social media, and your website for maximum impact.

Celebrating your customers can be a fun and fulfilling endeavor that leads to stronger relationships and increased loyalty—any time of the year.

For more insights, check out additional customer service advice.

Julie Bawden-Davis has been a freelance writer since 1985, contributing to publications such as Entrepreneur, Better Homes & Gardens, and Family Circle. She also blogs via Contently.com.