There are many myths about loyalty programs. They are too expensive. Customers won't participate. It is too difficult to track loyalty points and rewards. They are labor-intensive. In this blog post, we debunk these myths and explain the benefits of launching a customer rewards program.

Myth #1 - Customer loyalty programs are too complicated

Many business owners think that rewards programs are too complicated to set up and manage. However, loyalty programs can be quite simple to operate. All you need is a way to track referrals and customer activities, and a way to distribute rewards. Much of this can be automated with loyalty program software.

Myth #2 - Customer loyalty programs are only for big businesses

Small businesses can benefit greatly from loyalty programs. By giving customers an incentive to keep coming back, they can build a base of loyal, repeat customers. This, in turn, can help to increase sales and revenue. Additionally, loyalty programs can help small businesses to stand out from the competition. Customers are more likely to remember a business that offers them rewards for their loyalty. They are also more likely to recommend that business to others.

Myth #3 - Customer loyalty programs cost too much money

Many business owners believe that loyalty programs are too expensive to implement, but this is not always the case. There are many affordable options for reward programs such as simple point systems. The key is to find a program that fits your budget and business goals. Once you do, you can calculate appropriate point values for earning activities as well as for rewards. This can help ensure that your program is both cost-effective and enticing enough to drive loyalty and retention.

Myth #4 - Customer loyalty programs are labor-intensive

Loyalty programs can be labor intensive if you don't have the right tools in place. However, if you use customer retention and referrals software to manage your program, it can be quite easy and efficient. Software can automate many of the tasks associated with running a rewards program, such as tracking customer activity to give them points and redeeming rewards.

Loyalty program software makes it easy to reward customers for their patronage.

The truth about customer loyalty programs

Loyalty programs offer many benefits for businesses. They can help to increase customer retention, drive referrals, and bring in more revenue. In addition, loyalty programs are a great way to thank customers for their business and show them that you appreciate their brand loyalty. Don't let myths about loyalty programs stop you from starting one.

How to launch a customer loyalty program

Reward the right customer behavior

This is an important step in setting up your program to drive the results you want to achieve. For example, to...

  • Get more referrals --> reward points for each new customer
  • Increase customer lifetime value --> reward points for each visit to the business
  • Get more repeat purchases --> reward points for spending on retail
  • Keep customers engaged --> run special promotions and challenges with points

The key is to identify what behaviors you want to encourage and then offer rewards that will motivate your customers to take those actions.

Choose the right rewards

Rewards need to be valued by the customer. For example, retail shoppers like special discounts on their next purchase. Gym members appreciate a free drink or discounts on their membership fees.

At least one reward should be achievable within 3 months for your average customer. More expensive rewards can take the average customer longer to earn. 

Rewards can be used to cross-sell products and services. A salon may offer its clients discounts on hair products as a reward. And a health club, a free personal training session for gym members.

Make sure your program is easy to use

The last thing you want is for your customers to be confused about how your program works. Use a rewards system that's clear and easy to understand. Customers should be able to easily see how they can earn points, and what the rewards are.

Promote your program

Let your customers know about your rewards program and how they can start earning points or rewards. Some effective marketing strategies are: social media posts, featuring the program on your business website, and placing signs in strategic locations around your business.

Track your results

Be sure to track the results of your rewards program so that you can see what is working and what isn't. This will help you to make necessary adjustments and improve the effectiveness of your program.

Be creative

There are many different ways to design a rewards program, so get creative and have fun with it. This yoga studio created a karma points concept. It empowers members to donate their points to anyone facing financial hardship and collectively chip in for their membership.

Following these tips, you'll be on your way to starting a successful reward program for your business.

Perkville is an affordable customer loyalty platform for fitness, retail, salon and spa businesses.

Run a loyalty program with Perkville

Perkville is an affordable customer retention and referrals program that is customized for fitness, retail, salon, and spa businesses. It automates the experience by integrating with many point of sale, scheduling, membership, and Ecommerce platforms.

With Perkville, it is easy to...

  • Motivate customers with loyalty points and custom rewards
  • Run promotions and challenges to engage existing customers and reach new ones
  • Create a VIP program
  • Refer friends through social media, email and text
  • Run reports to track performances

Build a successful loyalty program today

Want to learn more about creating an effective rewards program? Schedule a demo with one of our team members here to see how Perkville can help your business grow.