More and more businesses are turning away from the “talking at” one-way advertising model and toward relationship marketing. This allows them to interact with their clients, which is definitely the direction that online marketing is taking these days. I’ve compiled some tips for those looking to connect and build deeper bonds with their clients.

1. Listen to your customers. This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many companies forget it.

2. Build a reputation. If you’re a guru in your chosen area, people will trust you. This can be done via blogs, speaking engagements, etc.

3. Keep track of existing clients. Keeping a file with some basic information will allow you to relate to each client personally, ask about their kids, wish them a happy birthday, etc. The details make all the difference.

4. Let them know they are important. Giving regular customers a little bonus or a freebie is a great way to cement your relationship and let them know that you appreciate them.

5. Share personal facts. While you shouldn’t spill your guts over every little thing, letting your clients know you’re human is a great way to build a successful relationship marketing campaign.

6. Give them real value. When someone buys something from you, give them a little extra and they will never forget you. This could be as simple as a free ebook or coupon for a discount on their next purchase.

7. Stay in touch. Relationship marketing is about remaining in contact with your clients, so set up an email list that will enable you to let them know about anything new and just to touch base from time to time, particularly between projects to make sure that your services or products are always fresh in the client’s mind.

8. Ask questions. What better way to find out what your potential customers will buy than to simply ask? Do this via email or set up a poll that visitors to your site can take, then act on the results.

9. Remember the Golden Rule. The best thing you can do in marketing is remember that the customer is always right. Follow that and you will always have happy clients coming back to you.

10. Be flexible. This is something that can really help your business grow. When a client needs something that is slightly out of your usual services, why not see if you can accommodate them? It could be a whole new way to do business and you’ll gain more clients.

Relationship marketing does take more involvement than more traditional methods, but it is certainly worth it. You’ll find that it is quite effective and with the interactivity of today’s online marketing, people are looking for companies that are open and responsive.

What strategies are you using to build the connections with customers?