How well do you know your customers?

Lately with the economy being as it is, I've been asking myself this question. How well do I know my customers? For myself, I have to admit that it is at times trying to get to know all your customers, but lets focus on the 20% of clients which give you 80% of your business (i.e. the 80/20 rule).

How well do you know your customers? If your answer is not very well or not at all, perhaps some of these ideas could be of use to you.

1. Newsletters: Use this technique to engage your customers in a discussion. The best method to do this would be to create a newsletter which gives your customers interesting bits of information and ultimately there could also be a Q&A section where the readers of your newsletter could submit question to you to seek your advice. This would really demonstrate your expertise in your business.

2. Co host an event with another business: This would apply to companies targeting the same consumer base but not selling similar products or services. Examples could be:

- A bank hosting a small seminar with a marketing consultant to give tips and advice to customers on the best way to market their business.

- A financial planner and an insurance agent teaming up to run a talk on savings, retirement planning, etc.

- A caterer and wine specialist hosting a wine tasting and food event entitled "matching the correct food with the correct wine".

These ideas could help you to create a better relationship with a your customers and you won't have to resort to spamming them just to remind them that you are still around. These ideas are enduring and like all marketing efforts they take time to build up momentum and gain an audience.