If you are a small business, there is a good chance that you are desperate for something that will distinguish you from your larger competitors. The truth is, there are many things that a smaller business can do that a larger business cannot. If you know what to do, you'll find that you'll have customer loyalty as well as a great talent for being recommended to your customer's friends and family. If you're looking for a few great tips to get your services on top, take a look below!

1.Your customers are individuals. Treat them accordingly. Just like you, your customers are individuals. A small business has the advantage of treating its customers as more than one in a demographic abstraction. Learn your customers names and greet them. This will make them feel valued to your company; and of course, they are. Remember what your customers like. This will keep them coming back to you for that personal touch big companies just can't offer.

2.Follow up. Customers are allowed to drop the ball, but as the business person in question, you are not allowed to! If they said that they'd call but didn't, give them a ring if you have their number. Even sending a gentle e-mail reminder will be a great deal better than simply letting a deal fall away. Chances are, they are simply busy and forgot, but it is in your best interests to remind them that you and your services exist.

3.Discounts While your discounts should never cut severely into your profits, you are in a great place to figure out what your customers want and how you can bring it to them for less money. Think about what your most popular products are (the ones that you will sell the most of anyway) and offer a discount. Better yet, make up a list of preferred customers, people who have made your business and are very loyal to it, and reward them for their loyalty.

4.Admit your mistakes Simple, yet difficult for many to do, especially larger companies, when you make a mistake, admit it and apologize. If you fail to do this, you may well lose the trust of your customers.

5.Don't be afraid to answer the phone Whether you are completely on your own or you have a few subordinates, always be willing to take a call from a customer. This is the best way to let them know that you are on their side and that you are not trying to hide something from them. Take some time to address their problems, and assure them that they will be addressed. You'll find that this is the best way to create customer loyalty.

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