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Relationship Based Marketing & Sales: The “Close” is Just the Beginning

October 16
Relationship Based Marketing & Sales: The “Close” is Just the Beginning

If you've met us, you've heard us say, "The sale is just the beginning of the relationship." At RB Consulting, we believe that closing a deal isn't the end of the journey—it's just the start. True success lies in what happens next: the post-purchase experience. How you engage with your customers after the sale can determine whether you build lasting relationships or fade into the background.

Why the Post-Purchase Experience Matters

Simply put, closing a sale isn’t enough. Businesses that prioritize customer success and engagement beyond the initial transaction are the ones that foster loyalty, reduce buyer’s remorse, and drive long-term growth. Here’s why embracing a robust post-purchase strategy is crucial:

  • Foster Long-Term Relationships: Consistent follow-ups and ongoing support show your clients that you’re invested in their success, not just your bottom line. This builds trust and keeps your business top of mind when future needs arise.
  • Increase Customer Retention: Satisfied clients stick around and become repeat buyers. By ensuring the ongoing value received from your solution and overall satisfaction, you reduce churn and build a loyal customer base.
  • Enhance Brand Reputation: When customers feel well-supported, they’re more likely to speak positively about your brand. This word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool for attracting new clients.
  • Upsell and Cross-Sell Opportunities: Regular check-ins and a strong relationship give you the insight needed to identify additional needs your customers may have, paving the way for upselling and cross-selling opportunities.

Examples of Success: How High-Performing Companies Elevate the Post-Purchase Experience

1. Healthcare: Philips Healthcare

Philips Healthcare has long been a leader in the industry by prioritizing the post-purchase experience. After the sale of their medical equipment, Philips provides ongoing training and support to healthcare professionals. They offer continuous education programs and on-site training to ensure that their clients can effectively use their products. This not only reduces downtime and errors but also fosters a strong relationship between Philips and its customers, resulting in long-term loyalty and repeat business​.

2. Technology Services: Cisco Systems

Cisco, a giant in the technology industry, has implemented a robust post-purchase strategy that focuses on customer success. After deploying their solutions, Cisco provides ongoing support through a Customer Success Manager (CSM) who works closely with clients to ensure they are getting the most out of their investment. Regular check-ins, tailored advice, and updates on new features ensure that customers feel supported and valued long after the initial sale. This approach has helped Cisco maintain a high customer retention rate and fostered deep, long-lasting relationships with its clients​.

3. Professional Services: Accenture

Accenture, a leader in the professional services industry, excels in maintaining long-term client relationships through a strong post-purchase engagement strategy. After delivering their consulting services, Accenture continues to work closely with clients, offering ongoing support, implementing recommendations, and providing continuous insights that help clients navigate new challenges. This commitment to client success has positioned Accenture as a trusted partner, ensuring clients return for future projects. 

How to Enhance Your Post-Purchase Experience for Your Clients

Implementing a strong post-purchase strategy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few steps to get you started:

  • Make It Easy to Get in Touch: Ensure that your clients can easily reach you through multiple channels, whether it’s email, phone, live chat, or social media. Providing a variety of contact options makes it convenient for clients to ask questions, receive support, and engage with your team, which helps build trust and ensures they feel supported at every stage of their journey.
  • Set Up Regular Check-Ins: Schedule follow-ups after the sale to ensure everything is going smoothly and address any issues that may arise. This demonstrates your commitment to the customer’s success.
  • Provide Ongoing Support: Offer continued access to resources, consider a YouTube Channel, online training videos, and support to help your clients get the most out of your products or services.
  • Gather Feedback Regularly: Actively seek customer feedback to understand their needs and make improvements. This not only helps you serve them better but also shows that you value their input.
  • Create a Customer Success Plan: Develop a tailored plan for each client that outlines how you will support them post-purchase, including key milestones and metrics for success.

Conclusion

The sale is just the beginning. By prioritizing the post-purchase experience, you can build stronger, more meaningful relationships with your clients, reduce churn, and create opportunities for future growth. 

Take a moment and consider: What steps are you taking to ensure that your customer 

relationships thrive long after the sale?

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