Almost half of UK small firms are doing businesses with clients they have never met, a new survey reveals.

The survey, by Royal Mail, reveals that 47 per cent of small businesses have yet to meet their customers face to face.

Although many firms were reluctant to forgo the personal relationships they had forged with their existing customers, 19 per cent admitted that they make no attempt to ‘get personal’.

The figures also revealed that many businesses are ignoring basic measures to ensure their clients are maintained.

Only 12 per cent send updates on company news including images and profiles of staff.

Furthermore, 87 per cent of respondents don’t keep a record of their customers’ personal information in order to create a more personal relationship.

Tim Rivett, head of small business at Royal Mail, said: “Small businesses seem to be missing very basic tricks when it comes to developing personal relationships with their customers and suppliers, something that is really important if they never meet face to face.

“Although distance can make it difficult for firms to meet customers face to face, this does not mean that they cannot still improve their trading and personal relationships.”

To help businesses improve their client relationships, Royal Mail have provided the following tips:

  • When mailing a customer, make any offer, such as reduced prices, personal to them. For example, a discount on the anniversary of their purchase.
  • Send out a newsletter to all key suppliers and customers including staff profiles to make important business contacts get a feeling of knowing your staff.
  • Make your customer or supplier feel special by ensuring that communications you send out are professional and relevant.