What's a business without its clients? The relationship between you and your client determines the growth and future of your business.
These relationships cannot be built overnight much like every other relation, this one takes time and effort too.
And all that energy you'll put into developing and harnessing these relationships will lead to successful projects, further connections, increased sales, and word-of-mouth referrals.
By following the tips below, you'll be well on your way to forging long-lasting relationships with all your existing and future clients.
"Honesty is the best policy", an old saying to live by when it comes to any kind of relation. Lack of trust in business relationships are no different.
To establish a long-lasting relationship with your client, make sure that you're honest and truthful in the suggestions you make, in everything you promise, and in everything you say.
Most people can tell when you're lying, clients are no different. If they can't figure out they're being lied to at first, they will eventually and that will be bad for business.
Don't you hate when your item isn't delivered on the due date? Well, your clients feel the same way.
Always deliver on the set date, or ahead of time (even better). If for some reason you know aren't going to hit the deadline, let the client know beforehand, or don't promise it in the first place.
Missing deadlines, projects you as irresponsible, causing trust issues that lead to short term contracts.
You're an expert in the service you're offering, make sure your client can rely on that expertise. Offer inputs, the more value you offer, the more your client will seek your expertise.
Sharing relevant information and keeping the client up-to-date with matters will result in long-lasting client relationships.
"Knowledge is your greatest weapon", the more you know the better, knowledge about your client will only help you in having better understanding of what they require.
Having thorough knowledge about your client's industry provides assurance and reinforcement to the client that they can trust you and rely on you to know what's best for them.
You don't need to know it all, but you certainly need to be aware of the challenges your client might face and offer solutions and precautions beforehand, and this will only strengthen your relationship as someone they need.
E-mails are a professional way to keep in touch with your clients, but there is a significant value in calling and arranging face-to-face meetings.
There is always a possibility of something being miscommunicated or misconstrued via e-mail, especially when there are multiple people included.
Face-to-face communication allows you to intercept the gestures and help you understand the client better.
Good communication is the key to lasting relationships with the clients as it establishes clarity and full closure.
We at Imagine Works always believe in having positive and healthy relationships with our clientele. Share this blog with your family and friends who're about to venture into new business or who're already in the industry.