3. BUILD TRUST
- Building client trust is critical. Trust grows over time – the quickest way to build this trust is to really understand your relationship with your clients and show them that they are important to you.
- Delivering on Promises
Do what you say you are going to do. Rather “under promise and over deliver” than “over promise and under deliver”
- Meet deadlines as far as possible – if you are not able to do so, at least KEEP IN TOUCH WITH YOUR CLIENT – there is nothing worse than wondering what is happening.
- Be prepared to apologise and fix your stuff ups – things happen in business that we do not always have control of – things go wrong – sometimes we stuff up. It is not what has happened, but how you deal with it that is so vitally important in retaining your client and helping to build and strengthen that relationship.
4. Networking Relationships
Remember that people will do business with people they know, like and trust.
With that in mind….
- BE GENUINE
- BE YOURSELF
- NO AIRES AND GRACES – we are smart cookies – we can see right through “fake”
Relax and ENJOY – it is all about having fun!
If you are not having fun you are doing it all wrong!!!
I have always found that if you approach networking with a philosophy of giving rather than receiving, you will not only enjoy it more, but will engage more effectively with those you meet and ultimately form better quality relationships.
Also remember that networking is not a one-off exercise – it takes time to build and nurture relationships
Approach people who are alone and be inclusive – they will appreciate the gesture of friendship
Focus on quality contacts, not quantity – be selective about giving and receiving business cards
Do not be a ‘networking shark’ who believes that networking means distributing a multitude of business cards in a short space of time, without ever taking the time to introduce themselves or get to know you!
Make others feel welcome – it is amazing how much more relaxed you will feel if you focus on making others feel comfortable! And you’ll make better connections as well
After the meeting…..
- Follow up with your contacts – send an email afterwards – DO NOT USE IT AS A SELL SELL – this will turn people off completely. Short and sharp is the key. If you feel you would like to stay in contact suggest a catch up coffee – leave it alone if they do not respond or do not seem interested.
Again, do what you have said you will do – if you have said you will call – then call!!! You loose so much at this critical stage if you renege on a commitment.
In conclusion ….. Keep your focus on your clients and networking contacts and they will keep their focus on you and your business
The cost to your business is minimal
The value to your business is PRICELESS
In the meantime, let us know how you thank your clients and maintain their loyalty. Share with us here or on our Facebook Page – our entire business is geared to supporting and nurturing relationships – so we love to know more about how you do this.
Yours in gifts worth giving
Bev Barnfather
