Delighting Customers: Freebies, Memorable Experiences, and the Power of Word-of-Mouth

A free slice of decadent cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory on your birthday. Sephora’s annual birthday mini-set for beauty insiders. A free birthday drink for Starbucks rewards customers. These are examples of companies that consistently WOW their customers. It’s customer rewards program perks like these that keep them coming back time after time.

Last week was my birthday, and I took full advantage of a couple of these offers. Who doesn’t appreciate freebies, especially ones of good quality and reputation? Taking advantage of these bonuses also made my birthday feel extra special and memorable. Plus, I always make sure to remind friends and family about them so they may take advantage of these freebies, too.

What better kind of marketing can a brand get besides good old-fashioned word-of-mouth marketing?

These companies excel in customer experience by making it a priority to delight their customers and deliver consistent, memorable interactions. This approach keeps their customers loyal, ensures the brand stays top of mind, and drives repeat purchases.

In the ever-evolving landscape of customer experience, these gestures of appreciation not only strengthen customer loyalty but also amplify brand advocacy. By prioritizing memorable interactions and leveraging the power of word-of-mouth, companies can create deeper connections with their customers and sustain long-term success in competitive markets. In my example, the restaurant chain and beauty company are both very competitive markets, yet they stand out and consumers know them. Let's continue to explore and celebrate the strategies that make customers feel truly valued and delighted.

Having worked in customer-oriented roles over the years, this topic truly interests me. I love discussing and writing about all things customer experience related, and I’m eager to connect with others who share the same passion.

Which brands that offer birthday freebies did I miss? I know there are tons out there!