With Valentine's Day approaching, it's a good time to think about how we show appreciation to the important people in our lives. Today, I'm thinking about the ever-important clients. How do we show them that we appreciate them and the opportunity they give us to do great work?

Here are a few thoughts:

1. Do a damn good job. But this should go without saying. :)
2. Tell them. Pretty basic, really: Thank them for their business, for the opportunity to grow your capabilities by working together. Everyone likes to hear that something they've done was appreciated, as long as the expression is sincere.
3. Ask them for feedback. It's a great way of acknowledging that you care about their experience in working with you and you want to improve it.
4. Recognize them with a party, outing, or other fun event. Many companies do this with a winter holiday party, but there's no reason you can't have a spring mixer or summer barbecue instead (or also).
5. Send them a thank-you present. This can be challenging, as you're looking for a small token that doesn't seem cheap. Perhaps there is a useful or beautiful token of your work together? A book that reminds you of them? A small indulgence you know they enjoy, such as some fancy coffee? A donation to a favorite charity? A dinner out to celebrate the completion of your project?
   
   • Note that care must be shown in giving gifts to government employees; there are strict federal regulations designed to discourage bribery and kickbacks.
6. Consider whether you can provide a less tangible, highly useful gift that meets a need. Reid Hoffman suggests this: Think about your clients' needs, their values, what they're really good at and what they're currently struggling with. Is there a small something you can provide that is "easy for you to give, unique to the relationship, and unusually helpful for the other person"?
   
   • An introduction to a potential partner?
   • Information on a grant they're especially suited for?
   • Advice about rehabilitating a historic building?
   • A letter of reference for their next big initiative?
7. Enter the work you do for them for awards. This works better in creative industries than in commodity sales, of course. You're seeking acknowledgement that your partnership has created outstanding quality that you can both be proud of. When you win, provide your client with a copy of the award, so you can both display a souvenir celebrating your shared success.

What else have you done to appreciate clients? Have you had good (or bad) experiences with the above options?