That website doesn't work...

To retain clients you need to service them better than anyone else can. To build your list you need to network and reach out. Advertising is one way but often being out and about and handing your card to potential clients and saying hi works best

Well on the link the website is an intuit advertisement nothing more.

On retaining clients, email is fine but many don't read emails especially things that are generated by an outside source. Recently I found that my egreetings card don't get delivered and that is a major website so if nobody gets them then this will be tough too.

Now if you send something from a salon email address or personal email then you likely would get through.

Sending cards are great especially when you write something on it. Most can be pre-printed but you need to add the personal touch. Phone calls don't work as you never know if the person is busy or at work when you call and if you call and piss them off then you lost them.

Secret about owning a successful business "Innovate and Implement" this will do all. In whatever field you are working in try to do something new something Innovative this way you will not only gain new customers but also retain the old, you should be a habit of customers this way you will never lose a customer because it's hard to release someone from his/her habit.

Satisfy your customers... or someone else will. Your prospects and customers can give you important feedback, both directly and indirectly.

There are a few things you can do to retain clients. The first thing is to build a meaningful relationship with each client that comes into your business. I would do this in two ways.
1. Everytime a client visits your place, they should leave with something in their hands. Try buying some small, inexpensive gift bags and placing a thank you card inside, as well a few samples. I even like to throw in a few pieces of candy. This gives the client something tangible they can bring home with them. I work at a Chicago Day Spa and I do this with every client. You can get an idea of how yoru web site could be written by visiting other sites. I tried to make mine simple, an very easy to use.

2. Write a thank you card (hand written) to each of your new clients. You don't need to do a lot of promotions when you do this. If you have a discussion with your new client, try to remember something important about the conversation and mention it in the thank you card you write. For example, if the person works as a lawyer, or flips burgers at Mc Donalds, try to mention the stress of their job and how much you appreciate their business.  Going the extra mile to build a strong customer relationship can build long term loyality.  If you don't have time to do this, have a staff member help you out.  

Here's a cool way to market if any of you are looking for another shop or salon to work in, trying to increase clientele, or if you have some booths you’re trying to fill.  You can add your profile to <removed>.  I got an inside scoop that they’re gearing up to spend lots of money advertising to thousands of barbers, stylists, barbershop & salon owners, and everyday people.

One of the "best" strategies was mentioned several times above. The personal handwritten "thank you" letter works magnificently. Lets face it, no other salon in your area is utilizing this amazing strategy. To take it a step further, add a "thank you" coupon along with your thank you message. This will not only separate you from your competitors, it will make sure your client returns to your salon quickly.

Another great way is to start a "membership" program. This can be done several ways.

1. Preferred Client Card. Once they hold your preferred client card they are less likely to go somewhere else. This little tactic has been proven to create customer loyalty...A.K.A "The Customer Loyalty Card."
2. The punch card approach. For every 10 visits the next one is FREE. Utilized by Dunkin Donuts, Hair Cuttery, Subway etc.
3. More elaborate "Continuity" program. Example...Your client would be charged monthly, lets say $100.00 dollars to receive $125.00 in services. You can also set up several different programs... Celebrity Gold Program... Celebrity Platinum Program, and your elite...Inner Circle Membership Program. This gives you instant cash flow every month, even if your clients don't come in.

These are just a few ways to put a "steel cage" around your clients.

Glen Andrews