Greenlight

What can we learn about loyalty from a dog?

If you’ve ever visited the greenlight offices, chances are good you were greeted by one of our 4-legged friends (Nala, Pickles, Mack, Allie, Logo, Otto, OD, or Maggie). Besides making us laugh and bringing a smile to our faces, we think we can actually learn a little something about loyalty from our furry friends. And since we help companies gain loyalty from their customers, why not have a little fun along the way. So, here we go. Presenting “Lessons in Loyalty: How Dogs Achieve Top Tier Status.”

As loyalty marketers, our goal with customers is straightforward: choose us over them. Or choose us more than you choose them. Or, if you have to choose them, what can we do to make you stop choosing them and choose us? While we understand that getting some of their business is a really good thing, we ultimately want all of their business. And we believe the best way to get it, is by rewarding them for choosing us.

This is where we can learn something from our four-legged companions.

A dog’s loyalty to his owner is unwavering. It survives mishaps and misunderstandings. A dog is the most unselfish friend a man can have. He never deserts his owner. Stands by him through the good times and the bad. Is always eager to please him. And while it may sound like it is a one-sided relationship, nothing could be further from the truth. A worthy owner enjoys steadfast loyalty from his dog because he gives his companion the things he needs to be truly happy: love and appreciation, routines and consistency, and food and rewards.

While it's a bit much to think customers would give a company the kind of unfaltering and absolute loyalty a dog gives its owner, there are some simple lessons we can take from our furry friends as we map out a winning loyalty approach.

1. Appreciate your customers
2. Be consistent in your communication
3. Reward them for their loyalty

What are some of your favorite loyalty incentives? Least favorite? With all the new technologies (foursqaure, SCVNR, etc.), what innovative loyalty practices have you seen?