qk106-f8a16155-13fd-453c-99f5-22ab70e4b265-v2Have you ever been out of coffee? Particularly first thing in the morning? It can be a nightmare for some of us. I have been a big coffee drinker all my life and always look forward to that first cup in the morning. I am not sure if it is the caffeine fix, the taste, the aroma or just holding a mug in my hand.  At home, my wife does a great job keeping me stocked to maintain my sanity. Well how does FREE coffee sound to you?

I am sure many of my “Magic Minute Members” have been to a Starbucks.  I am fortunate to have a Starbucks less than a half mile from my home and office. I love going whether it be my local neighborhood Starbucks or one while I am traveling around the country speaking.  I like to stop in and relax for a moment, use their free wi-fi, meet up with clients or friends and enjoy a cup of premium coffee. Starbucks provides people with more than just great coffee. They provide a feeling of a warm community and romance of the coffee experience.  They even give you an opportunity to continue that enjoyable experience with a unique offer.

Did you know that when you purchase a 12 or 20 ounce bag of Starbucks coffee at the grocery store, you can bring the bag to Starbucks for a 12 ounce cup of coffee on the house? A nice little extra from Starbucks. Not only a nice gesture, but a very smart one as well. If you are like me, a true coffee drinker, who wouldn’t enjoy receiving a free cup of coffee, particularly if it is from Starbucks? This offer not only provides you a free cup of coffee but conveniently lets you stop by and get that next bag of ground coffee too. What a deal and a pleasant one at that. Granted it is only a cup of coffee but what a nice touch.

Think about how you can give a little something extra and unexpected to your customers. Particularly as an added surprise. Even if it is just a small act of kindness. Here are some examples:

  • Omega Sports gives out miniature squeeze sport balls to children.
  • Double Tree Hotels gives you a warm fresh cookie upon arrival.
  • My Honda Dealership gives you a coupon for a free car wash.
  • PF Changes Restaurant gives you a $10 coupon for your next visit.

How do you think your customers would feel when you give them something a little extra and your competition doesn’t? Who do you think they will remember? You of course!

What can you give away or provide to your existing customers that is a little extra during their visit? It doesn’t have to be big or cost a lot of money. Your customers will certainly appreciate your kindness and know that you care.

Please share (and brag) about examples that you are doing for your customers.  You can even share examples from other businesses. We would love to hear them all.

Remember to Always Make It Magical!….”Ex-Disney Guy”