Many employees get wrapped up in the day-to-day to-do’s, hoping that the work speaks for the company effectively. Where business is truly successful is in the meaningful connections built with clients. This, of course, is much easier said than done. How do you go about creating lasting relationships?
- Reach Out to Clients and Let Them Know You’re Available
As an owner, you probably know more than most, that your self-employed clients are in an endless cycle of tasks and to do’s that span far past their own job descriptions. Make yourself available to these clients, answer questions promptly, and connect with them about their concerns. Thankfully with the constant improvement in communications, this can be done much more easily than in the past.
- Keep the Industry Jargon to a Minimum
If you have a client, you have a person who expects you to understand the new and up to date terminology and procedures in your industry. It is very important to your client that you can have a clear and concise conversation translating jargon into something easy to understand and explaining what that means to their industry.
- Help Them Solve Their Unique Challenges
It is not a surprise that each business owner will face their own set of unique challenges, but you can ensure your client you will be there to point them towards solutions. Observe areas in which they fall short and have a serious discussion with them. Point them to tools, strategies, or software that can take the load off of them, so they can continue to focus on the revenue driving aspects of their business.
- Be Honest and Be Yourself
Your clients are people;, that can be easy to forget in a world of transactions. Focus on listening and learning about them (and hopefully they do the same for you. An open and honest relationship causes these collaborations to move smoothly and pleasantly.
- Share Your Knowledge and Expertise
You have knowledge both in and outside of your industry. Sharing that expertise with your client as they anticipate different needs shows you are more than a service provider. The more confidence they have in you, the more you move towards being a trusted advisor and mentor to them.
