Many businesses aspire to build loyal customer bases. In the age of online shopping, that can seem like a fool’s errand.
Online shoppers have a reputation of being obsessed with the bottom line and willing to take their business anywhere that offers the best deal. But studies cast doubt on that reputation and highlight just how important customer loyalty can be to a business’s long-term success.
According to a 2018 from InMoment, a firm devoted to helping businesses compete in the experience economy, 77 percent of consumers say they’ve held relationships with specific brands for 10 years or more, while 75 percent admit they will recommend a brand to friends and family. Building such loyalty can help business owners meet both their short- and long-term goals.
Building a loyal customer base is not an overnight process, but one that requires patience and perseverance on the part of business owners. Various strategies can inspire customer loyalty, and business owners can employ as many of these tactics as they feel necessary to promote the long-term success of their companies.
- Emphasize exceptional customer service. Customer service is essential to building a loyal customer base that can serve as the foundation for the growth of a business. In a 2018 survey from Hubspot, 80 percent of respondents indicated they would stop doing business with a company because of a poor customer experience, while 93 percent admitted they are more likely to make repeat purchases with customers that offer excellent customer service. Promptly respond to customer inquiries, issues and complaints, and make every effort to ensure every customer experience is a positive one.
- Encourage customers to share their experiences. Encouraging customers to share their experiences is a great way to engage customers and learn about what they like or don’t like about a business. The internet may seem like a sounding board for negativity, but one especially appealing demographic is more likely to tell others about a good experience than a bad one. In 2017, the American Express® Global Customer Service Barometer found that millennials tell an average of 17 people when they get great care, but only 15 people when their experiences are poor. These customers want to share their positive experiences, and encouraging them to do so can be a great for business.
- Request feedback about customer service. Business owners won’t know what their customers are thinking about their service experience unless they ask. When fine-tuning customer service policies, include customer feedback sessions at the end of each support session. Such feedback can give business owners an idea of what their customer service experiences were like, and as already noted, such experiences can be the greatest driver of loyalty.
It’s possible to build loyal customers in the age of online shopping. A strong emphasis on customer service is essential to such a process.

September on Long Island: Celebrating National Days and Local Events September is a special time on Long Island, where the last whispers of summer blend with the early hints of fall. It’s a month filled with opportunities for fun, community, and celebration. As we transition into autumn, it’s the perfect time for businesses to engage with their audiences by tapping into both national days and local events. Here’s a look at some of September’s highlights and how your brand can make the most of them. 1. National Self-Care Awareness Month (September) With the hustle and bustle of life, especially as kids head back to school and the holiday season approaches, self-care is more important than ever. September is National Self-Care Awareness Month, a perfect opportunity for brands to promote wellness. Whether you’re in the beauty, wellness, or health industry, this is the time to share tips, products, and services that encourage your audience to take time for themselves. On Long Island, this could also tie into local spa days, wellness retreats, or even quiet walks through the beautiful parks like Caleb Smith State Park Preserve. You can create content around local self-care spots or partner with nearby wellness centers for promotions. 2. Long Island’s Fall Festivals September on Long Island is synonymous with vibrant fairs and festivals that celebrate the changing seasons. The Long Island Garlic Festival at Garden of Eve Organic Farm in Riverhead is a favorite, offering a unique mix of garlicky goodness, local vendors, and family fun. The Long Island Fair at Old Bethpage Village Restoration is another must-visit, showcasing the region’s agricultural heritage with traditional games, crafts, and delicious fair food. These events provide a fantastic opportunity for businesses to get involved. Whether it’s through sponsorships, setting up a booth, or simply creating content around these local traditions, connecting your brand to these beloved events can boost your visibility and community engagement. 3. National Grandparents Day (September 8) Grandparents are the pillars of many families, and this day is dedicated to honoring them. If your brand has a family-oriented focus, consider creating a campaign that celebrates grandparents. Whether it’s through heartwarming stories, discounts, or special events, there’s a lot you can do to show appreciation. Why not encourage your followers to take their grandparents to one of Long Island’s picturesque spots? A day out in places like the Bayard Cutting Arboretum or a stroll along the Port Jefferson Harbor would make for perfect content and a special experience for families. September is a month brimming with opportunities, both nationally and locally, to engage with your audience. From celebrating self-care to diving into Long Island’s rich cultural events, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with your community and make a lasting impact. Whether you’re running promotions, creating content, or participating in local events, September’s blend of national days and Long Island traditions offers the perfect canvas for creative marketing. Ready to harness the power of September for your brand? Our digital marketing agency is here to help you craft a strategy that resonates with your audience and drives results. Contact us today to start planning your September campaigns!