WHAT’S YOUR COMPANY’S LOVE LANGUAGE?

This week, the Madison+Main-iacs discussed Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languages. Chapman describes five basic styles that people use to effectively communicate their love. Do you know your Love Languages? This interesting topic got me thinking…how do these five Love Languages relate to your company’s brand? Can brands use the “Love Languages” to engage and communicate with clients and customers more effectively?

The Five Love Languages are Quality Time, Words of Affirmation, Physical Touch, Acts of Service, and Gift Giving. To break it down in simple terms, think of pizza as an instrument of love. (Not hard for me, I LOVE pizza.)

Can you think of ways to spend Quality Time with your customers? Maybe it’s with more face-to-face interactions. Of course you’re already providing great customer service, engaging events, and other things to show your love for customers. Right?

Gift Giving means “I-was-thinking-of-you-and-got-you-this.” A tangible expression of your love. Do you send your best clients and customers a Christmas gift? Why not do that for other special occasions or random holidays? I’ve never received an Arbor Day gift, but I bet I’d always remember the company that sent me one. Customers love free stuff, even if it’s a pen, coffee mug, or T-shirt.

Words of Affirmation means acknowledging and encouraging your customer or client and confirming how much you value them. “Thank you for your business. It means the world to us.” Acknowledging your customer in an authentic way and telling them that you really “get them,” is a great brand strategy. Dove did an awesome job with this in their latest campaign, The Dove Campaign for Real Beauty.

Physical Touch may seem a little weird, especially for those who work in the HR Department, but stay with me here. Shaking hands, pats on the back, or a friendly hug are all ways we connect with others. Yes, we’ve missed Physical Touch during the pandemic, but there are other ways to provide “high-tech, high touch” without actually touching someone…especially with email, social media, and CRM systems.

Acts of Service is making someone’s day better by doing something for them. Is your customer service stellar? Do you serve the customer or do you inconvenience them with your processes or out-of-date websites? People are attracted to companies that serve their communities. Look no further than local brands like Midas of Richmond. They’re all about service and their customers love them for it.

Madison+Main’s primary Love Languages are Gift Giving and Acts of Service. We contribute frequently to great causes, in cash and pro bono services for local non-profit organizations. We serve our clients too, and once in a while they get awesome, unexpected gifts. This week was no exception.