Loyalty cards have been a staple of customer loyalty programs for decades. For the longest time, these cards were how businesses identified their loyal customers. Think SM Advantage and Prestige Card, Starbucks Card (oh, what joy to collect all those unique designs), your alum ID card, and many more! We’re sure you have quite a lot of them in your wallet and a couple more stashed somewhere in your drawer.
However, due to the emergence of modern technology, many loyalty programs have shifted to digital-first programs. Nowadays, QR codes, web accounts, and mobile applications have taken over the world of customer loyalty programs.
But that doesn’t mean traditional loyalty cards are going out the window. In fact, some customers still prefer to have a physical card, either in conjunction with their digital membership or as a standalone.
In this article, we’ll explore how you can make the most out of your loyalty cards by leveraging technology, creating compelling rewards, and engaging customers in meaningful ways. Whether you’re just starting a loyalty program or looking to revamp your existing one, these tips will help you maximize the impact of your loyalty cards.
Make it unique and personalized
Generic cards don’t evoke anything. Would you agree? A simple piece of plastic doesn’t really make you feel special or valued. It just makes you feel like one in a million. It still doesn’t feel as enjoyable, even with a bit of personalization of adding your name.
But what if your loyalty card was uniquely designed? Or something that’s not common to all the other members? Or it accurately reflects your personality? Wouldn’t that make you feel more valued, proud, and excited even?
Veer away from traditional single-design cards and start personalizing and customizing your cards to feature different designs. This would make your customers feel more excited about getting a physical reward card. Plus, they’ll be more inclined to use it more often since it’s something they like.
It’ll also be a good idea to roll out seasonal and limited edition designs your customers can get as an upgrade. This creates novelty to save you from loyalty rewards fatigue.
Modernize it and unlock new perks
Most loyalty cards are just information holders where a customer’s name and code are stored. Sometimes, the card is just a symbol for the loyalty program. These cards’ lack of perks and functionality makes them dull and unappealing. If it’s just an information holder, why shouldn’t I just get a QR code, right?
If you want to keep your loyalty cards relevant, you need to modernize them and make sure it does more than just hold customer information. For example, you can program your loyalty cards to give customers access to an exclusive restroom in your establishment. Another function you can do is to program their card as their entry badge for exclusive events of your brand.
Take it to the next level by integrating a loading function where customers can use their cards to pay for their purchases.
Offer exclusive perks for physical cards
If you’re genuinely keen on making your loyalty cards relevant in today’s digital age, you need to offer exclusive perks for holders of your physical cards. Creating enticing offers exclusive to cardholders will encourage your loyalty members to avail a physical card.
An upgrade to this strategy is by being selective of who gets your reward cards. By creating prestige and gatekeeping these benefits, you’re creating premium branding around your loyalty card. This move makes it more desirable to customers.
A well-designed and executed loyalty card program can tremendously impact your business. By thinking creatively, leveraging technology, and integrating personalization, you can turn your loyalty program into a powerful tool for driving repeat business, building customer loyalty, and growing your brand.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box. Whether you’re just starting or looking to revamp your existing program, there’s always room for improvement. The key is focusing on your customers, their needs and desires, and the outcomes you want.
With the right approach, your loyalty card program can be a win-win for your business and customers. So, go ahead and start maximizing the power of your loyalty cards today!
