Why Going Over and Above to Surprise and Delight Your Clients is Important

Are you ready to take your client experience to the next level? I know I’m always looking for ways to go above and beyond for my clients! In this blog post, I’m sharing ways that you can surprise and delight your clients too. Not only will this make your clients super happy, but it will also set you apart in the calligraphy world. So, grab your drink of choice, and let’s talk about how to create unforgettable experiences for your clients together!

But before we get into it, are you looking to grow your calligraphy business? If so, I would love to invite you to sign up for my mentoring program designed specifically for calligraphers! Or, make sure to follow me on Instagram for daily inspiration and updates, and tune into my podcast where I share more calligraphy tips and lessons learned!

That all said, let’s get into it!

Why Client Experience is so Important

Creating an exceptional client experience is essential if you want to grow a calligraphy business in 2024. It’s not just about delivering a beautiful piece of calligraphy; it’s about the entire journey from the first inquiry to the final delivery. When you surprise and delight your clients, you build trust, foster loyalty, and encourage word-of-mouth referrals! Your clients will feel valued and appreciated, which is crucial in building a strong, lasting relationship (and keeps them coming back!). Happy clients are your BEST marketing tool!

When clients are delighted with their experience, they are more likely to return and recommend your services to others. This word-of-mouth marketing is invaluable and can significantly boost your business. Additionally, a great client experience can lead to positive reviews and testimonials, which are powerful tools for attracting new clients.

To learn why investing in better customer experience will make you more money as a calligrapher, click here!

Answer Questions Before They Ask

When I think about how to surprise and delight, it doesn’t need to be overly complicated. A big part of delighting your clients is anticipating their needs and questions. Here’s what that might look like.

• Welcome PDF: When you sign a contract and pay your deposit, you’re likely excited to get started! Start with a gorgeous (and friendly) welcome PDF that outlines your process, what they can expect, and a little bit about you. It sets a professional tone and makes clients feel taken care of from the get-go. Include sections like “About Me,” “What to Expect,” and “Next Steps” to provide a clear roadmap.
• FAQ Packet: A comprehensive FAQ packet can save both you and your clients valuable time. Cover everything from turnaround times to payment options. The more detailed, the better. Think of common questions you’ve received and address them upfront to show that you understand your client’s concerns.
• Information in the Proposal: Include all necessary information in your proposal to prevent any confusion later on. This can include pricing, timelines, and any additional services you offer.
• Information in Emails: Consistently provide relevant information in your email communications. This keeps clients informed and reduces the number of questions they need to ask. Use email templates that cover different stages of the client journey, ensuring all bases are covered.

When you think of surprising and delighting your clients, not everything needs to cost money! Anticipating their needs and making them feel cared for is a great way to connect.

Set Them Up for a Seamless Experience

Next, let’s talk about ensuring your clients have a smooth experience from start to finish. Here are some ways you can do just that:

• Easy to Use Templates: Provide templates that collect their information in a straightforward manner. This simplifies the process for both you and your clients. Templates can include order forms, information sheets, guest list sheets, and style guides, making it easy for clients to provide the details you need.
• Wording / Etiquette Guide: Offer a guide that helps clients with wording and etiquette. This can be especially useful for wedding clients who may need assistance with formal language. Include examples of traditional and modern wording options, along with tips on etiquette to help clients make informed decisions.
• Tutorial Videos: Create short tutorial videos to walk clients through your process or answer common questions. I use loom for this! This adds a personal touch and can make complex information more digestible.

Show Your Appreciation

Lastly, showing appreciation can leave a lasting impression and definitely surprise and delight your clients! Here are a few thoughtful gestures:

• Sending a Booking Gift: Send a small, thoughtful gift when a client books your services. This can be something as simple as a handwritten note or a small piece of your work. A personalized bookmark or a custom-made thank you card can be delightful low-cost surprises.
• Gift the Week of the Wedding: For wedding clients, send a gift the week of the wedding. It’s a stressful time, and a little surprise can go a long way in showing you care and are thinking of them! Consider a small package with soothing items like tea, candles, or a handwritten letter wishing them well.
• Thank You Note: Like I’ve said throughout, not everything you do to go above and beyond needs to cost money. After the service is complete, consider sending a heartfelt thank you note. Expressing your gratitude leaves clients feeling valued and appreciated. A handwritten note on quality stationery can be a beautiful keepsake for your clients.

Surprise and Delight Your Clients 

I hope you’re excited to go that extra mile to surprise and delight your clients! By anticipating their needs, making their experience seamless, and showing genuine appreciation, you create lasting relationships and a stellar reputation. Remember, a happy client is not only a repeat client but also your best advocate!

Ready to elevate your calligraphy business? Check out my mentoring program, where I offer personalized guidance for fellow calligraphers! Don’t forget to follow me on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes looks at my work. Finally, tune into my podcast for more insights and tips on growing your calligraphy business. Let’s make your clients’ experiences unforgettable together!