5 Ways to Reignite Your Startup Supporters
In America, we are in the Thanksgiving season, which makes me reflect on things and people I am grateful for in my business. This inevitably leaves me with questions like:
When was the last time you connected with your mentor? Or what about met up with some of your early advocates and supporters?
If the answer is along the lines of too long (which I can be guilty as charged), then keep reading.
It has been a busy year for everything, and as we are entering the holiday season, I think it is an important time to reflect.2023 has been full of ups and downs, probably not only from from the perspective of your own business, but also from the viewpoint of international politics.
But in the chaos and the noise, it is still essential to keep your business relationships strong.
And here are five no or low cost ways to stay top of mind with your mentors and give thanks for all their support.
1. Send an old school thank you card
I am a grandma at heart. I was raised with the notion that you should give thanks, and the best way to do this is through an old fashion card in the snail mail.
Whenever I started my own business, I had some simple custom stationary made with “From the Desk of Kaitlin Fritz” so it can be used for all sorts of occasions (including this one).
2. Drop an update or card via email
Now, I recognize that many mentors may not share their physical addresses, so the next best option is an email.
Whenever I send out my end-of-year emails thank yous, I like to go a bit above and beyond just a basic gmail. I love a good Paperless Post or email thank you card that has a bit of class to show the extra thought and care.
3. Grab a coffee
Support a local small business and get that pumpkin spice latte or peppermint mocha. Offer to set up a coffee date or breakfast to catch up face to face.
I always try to meet my VIP mentors (i.e. the ones that have seen me through everrrrrrrything) this time of year for some festive jo or warm mulled wine because these are relationships I aim to have for life.
4. Share BTS on social media
Maybe some of your mentors, business advocates, and supporters are online, and you have never met them in person. (I love my online friends!)
So why not share some behind the scenes exciting news with them on social media with a Private Instagram Channel or Linkedin Group message. It gives them the heads up on all the excitement and a backstage pass on how your business is doing.
5. Do a surprise giveaway
This is my favorite if you are a product based business or you have some cool merch. Why not create a goodie bag and give some away to your biggest supporters? I love to also throw in a personal note of encouragement into this happy mail.
These are a few of my tips to stay in tune and in touch with your mentors and startup supporters this season. I would love to hear yours! Do share with me what you do during this festive time in the comments.
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