Small businesses are often valued by customers for offering a more personal product or experience, but is there anything more personal than thanking a customer directly? Even more, thanking customers for their business on a regular basis?

“Although you must market to new customers to help your business grow, keeping existing ones is essential for your small company’s stability,” wrote Shala Hainer in a recent Houston Chronicle article.

The article lists the most thoughtful ways for small businesses to say thank you - on a tight budget.

-In person, if possible

Always make your customers feel appreciated, whether it’s by thanking them for their business or greeting them by name when you see or hear from them.

-Send thank-yous without ulterior motives

Thank customers by sending short notes thanking them for their business without mention of any specials or promotions. Sending handwritten letters using the customers’ names in greetings adds more “appreciation punch.” Appreciation emails may also have a similar effect and can save the small business money on postage.

-Reward your customers’ loyalty

Rather than having customers receive rewards for filling up a punch card, randomly thank loyal customers with gift certificates and coupons. The Chronicle suggests using terms like “Just to Thank You” or “We Couldn’t Do This Without You.”

Small business marketing news brought to you by 123Print.com, provider of affordable custom business cards, postcards, letterhead and outdoor promotional items.