There’s an old saying: “It’s cheaper to keep her.” While it’s usually said about marriage, the same principle applies to business. Too many business owners get caught up in the chase for new customers, pouring time and money into acquisition, while neglecting the very people who already buy from them.
The result? A revolving door. For every new customer walking in, two are walking out. Why? Because the business isn’t invested in the relationship.
As Janet Jackson once asked, “What have you done for me lately?” That’s exactly what your customers are asking:
Since I became your customer, what value have you given me?
What new features have you added on?
What new products have you introduced?
What new problems have you helped me solve?
If you’re still offering the same solution you did a year ago without evolving, you’ve lost touch with your customers. Just like in marriage, you have to continually invest in the relationship if you expect it to last.
From Marriage to Money: Why Retention Matters
The idea of investing in customers doesn’t just stop at the marriage analogy—it also connects to how we view money. After all, every relationship, whether personal or professional, is about balance and exchange.
Think of your customer relationship like a bank account. You can’t make a one time deposit of a $1,000 and withdraw for life. Every positive touchpoint, personalized service, product updates, loyalty perks, and thoughtful communication is a deposit into the relationship. Every time you ignore, neglect, or fail to innovate, you’re making a withdrawal.
Without enough deposits, the account runs dry. And once that happens, your customer is gone.
But here’s the good news: when you shift your mindset from extraction to investment, retention becomes not just sustainable but profitable.
Why Retention is More Profitable
Retention isn’t just about preventing loss, it’s about multiplying growth.
Lower Costs – It costs far less to keep a customer than to get a new one.
Predictable Revenue – Repeat customers create a steady stream of income.
Advocacy – Loyal customers don’t just buy again; they bring friends with them.
So instead of constantly chasing after the next “new thing,” think about what would happen if you focused on nurturing the relationships you already have.
Turning Principles into Practice
Of course, knowing why retention matters is only half the battle. The real question is: how do you actually strengthen customer relationships in a way that keeps them coming back?
Here are a few practical ways to start:
Check In Regularly – Just like in marriage, communication matters. Stay in touch with your customers, not just when you want them to buy.
Reward Loyalty – Create programs or perks that show appreciation.
Stay Relevant – Anticipate evolving needs and continue solving new problems.
Add Value First – Educate, inspire, or support your customers beyond the sale.
Make It Personal – Recognize customers as individuals, not transactions.
The Key Takeaway
Customer retention isn’t just a strategy, it’s a relationship. If you want your customers to stay, you must continually invest in them. Add value. Innovate. Show them they matter.
Because at the end of the day, it’s true in both marriage and business: it’s cheaper, and smarter to keep the ones you already have.
👉 See You Tomorrow at 7:00PM EST: Growth Strategy #7 – Franchising & Licensing to Scale Your Business
