You need to actively promote and believe in your loyalty program. This applies not just to you, but your entire staff as well. If you don't make it feel special, your customers won't perceive it that way either. Make sure to ask every customer if they have their loyalty card. Ensure they are aware of its existence.
The strength of your loyalty offer is paramount. If it doesn't provide genuine value, it won't be appealing or compelling enough to maintain your customers' interest. A mere 5% discount on a $15 purchase typically won't create excitement. Offering the sixth haircut at half price should do the trick.
You want your customers to keep their loyalty cards with them when they visit your establishment. This is where loyalty card apps and mobile loyalty systems have a distinct advantage, benefiting both your customers and, ultimately, you. One of the most common shortcomings of traditional loyalty programs is that customers tend to lose or forget their physical cards. Storing these cards in your loyalty app solves this problem.
While it may seem obvious, it's essential to get your service and product offering right from the beginning. Without this foundation, customers may not return at all. Your loyalty program is a tool for well-run businesses to retain customers, not a tool for subpar businesses to acquire new ones.