2/20/2008
The Art of the Relationship (Part 1 of 2)
| True or false: Your clients and the relationships you foster with them are the most important aspect of your business. (Obviously true.) Through good working relations, you not only can generate more business, but credibility and visibility (and ultimately profitability) that money really can' buy. By extending them the courtesy of open communication and meaningful attention, you ultimately develop a strong relationship. There are a few "musts" that I live by with all clients no matter how "big" or "small" they are. What really blows my mind is that not all businesses abide by these basic tenets. Here are my Top Six "art of the relationship" tips for entrepreneurs, small business owners and all of the rest of you no matter where you fall in the business spectrum: Be on time, every time. If you promise to deliver a project at a certain time, deliver it accordingly. If you must break or miss a deadline, contact your customer immediately and be prepare to provide them a good reason for missing it. Same goes for a meeting – if you're late, just call someone and let them know. Connect in different ways. Try to connect on a personal level by inviting your clients to joining a social network, such as Linkedin or Ning. When you send e-mail, inquire about their day or ask about something mentioned in a previous e-mail (such as a wedding or a child's illness). Be on the lookout…and take action. Something I have always naturally done is send articles, either by snail mail or by e-mail, to clients and even people I met way back at an event or through a client or colleague. I am big on sharing information and it is amazing how significant and potentially valuable such a small gesture may be to the recipient. See my next post for the next three "art of the relationship" tips. Labels: business advice, business relationships, relaltionships |
