如何联系外贸老客户呢英文

Understand Why Staying in Touch is Important

For any business that relies on overseas clients, maintaining good long-term relationships is very important. Even if a client hasn't purchased from you in awhile, it's a good idea to periodically check in with them. They may have new needs or budgets in the future that you can help with. Regular contact also helps keep your business top of mind for when opportunities do arise. There are several effective ways to gently stay connected with old clients from abroad.

Send Timely Seasonal or Holiday Greeting Cards

Simple greeting cards sent around major holidays are a nice gesture clients will appreciate. You can have cards printed with your company logo and a brief message wishing them well for the upcoming season. Send them in December for Western holidays or during Chinese New Year if contacting Asian clients. Include a business card inside in case they need your services later on. Greeting cards require very little effort but show you still value the relationship.

Share Relevant Industry or Company Updates

Clients will be interested to know how your business is progressing and any new capabilities or offerings you have developed. You can create a short newsletter or email highlighting new products, expanded shipping locations, certifications earned, or industry trends. Offer to follow up if they have related needs. Sharing timely updates keeps your business top of mind and positions you has a knowledgeable resource in your field.

Send Handwritten Thank You Notes for Past Work

Even if a client last purchased years ago, a heartfelt thank you note shows you still appreciate their past business. Handwrite a brief note expressing gratitude for their past orders and confidence in your ability to meet any future needs. Include your contact details in case an opportunity arises. Clients respond very positively to personalized notes and may feel inclined to return business because of the courtesy. It only takes a few minutes but can make a lasting good impression.

Schedule In-Person Visits When Travelling Near Them

If travel brings you close to a client's location, see if you can schedule a brief in-person meeting even just for coffee. A face-to-face catch up shows exceptional commitment to maintaining the relationship and gives you a chance to discuss business in more depth. Offer to give a tour of your facility next time they visit your country as well. Personal visits when possible are highly valued in many cultures and leave a positive memory of your company.

Contact Them Once or Twice Yearly by Phone

While not as personal as a visit, a quick phone call lets clients hear your voice and allows for a more interactive check in. Call during their slow season so you have their full attention. Inquire how business is going and ask if you could provide any support or information. Be understanding if they don't have needs currently but make it clear you are available should anything arise. Periodic phone calls help you build rapport over time.

Participate in Relevant Industry Events Near Them

See if any major trade shows, seminars or conferences will take place near your client's location within the next year. Offer to sponsor an item or booth space and personally invite them. Attendance gives you quality face time to catch up in person and showcase any new offerings. It also positions you as an industry leader dedicated to the region. Make use of events happening close to clients as valuable relationship building opportunities.

Follow Up Consistently and Store Contact Logs

While occasional contact is good, consistent follow up is important to maintaining strong client relationships over many years. Keep clear records of all touch points like letters, calls, and meetings in a customer relationship management system. Note any changes to their company or circumstances. Customized, well-timed follow ups show your dedication without being overbearing. Storing contact history helps you personalize outreach and know when it's been an appropriate amount of time since last speaking.

In conclusion, establishing ongoing communication through various impersonal and personal channels helps retain existing clients and positions you for future opportunities. Consistent caring contact over many years builds tremendous trust and loyalty that leads to repeat and referred business on an international scale.

常见问答(FQAS)

How often should I contact old overseas clients?

You can contact them once or twice a year. Make seasonal greetings, follow important holidays and events. Also keep proper communication records to ensure consistent yet not overbearing follow ups.

What is the best way to contact old overseas clients?

Different methods work best depending on different situations. Regular updates via email or newsletter are convenient. Handwritten thank you notes show appreciation. Phone calls allow interactions. Meeting in person when traveling near them is highly valued. Choose proper methods based on client, relationship and occasion.

What information should I share when contacting old clients?

You can share new industry trends, company updates like new products/services, expanded locations or certifications. Highlight anything relevant and of value to clients. Offer to discuss further and provide support if they have related needs. Position yourself as knowledgeable resource in the field.

How long after the last order should I contact old clients?

There is no fixed rule but a general guide is once or twice a year after the last order. Allow some time to pass but not too long that they may forget your business. Consistent contact helps maintain top-of-mind awareness for when opportunities arise in the future.

What if the old client does not currently have needs?

It is understandable they may not have immediate needs. Express confidence in ability to support future requirements. Remain available and understand circumstances change. Consistent caring contact builds strong long-term relationships and trust for potential future collaborations.

更新时间:2024-11-24