First impressions are really important and often make the difference between a customer deciding to walk into your business and buy, or not.

But last impressions are also important.

How your customer feels at the end of their transaction can mean the difference between a customer who comes back time and time again and a customer who leaves never to return.

What happens at the end of the sale is usually what sticks in a person’s mind. And a great last impression can smooth out any number of rough edges or put an exclamation point on an already exceptional experience.

Here are some fun and easy ways to make the last part of the sale the best part of the sale…

• Give small, inexpensive toys to everyone who buys.
• Place candy at the register that customers can enjoy as they close the sale.
• My local supermarket always has a bagger who takes my groceries and puts them in my car for me. I especially remember (and appreciate) this on those occasions when I go to the competitor’s superstore and have to carry my own bags!
• A nearby appliance store leaves a rose with every delivery or installment.
• My favorite pizzeria brings mint chocolate to everyone at the table along with the bill.
• Always remember to say “Thank you!”

All these little things leave wonderful lasting impressions. And the warm glow they give off keeps customers coming back.

So what can you do to make a lasting last impression?