Building Customer Relationships: Going Beyond The Transaction
The Art of Deeper Connection
Where do you shop for groceries?
Are you a homeowner? If so, where? Suburb or inner city?
Do you have children?
Do you like to travel?
How do you respond to disappointment?
What's the first thing that you do when you wake up?
To most, these may sound like questions that you would ask on a date. The truth of the matter is that, if you're a business owner, you are on a date. And like any partnership, it is important that you continue to date them. Business owners are constantly courting customers with the hopes of building a relationship that will stand the test of time. Like dating, the longevity and strength of the relationship is not attributed to surface-level engagement. It is the intimate understanding and serving of the other's needs that keeps the relationship intact. Ok, ok! Enough Shakespeare for the day.
Empowering Business Relationships
In all seriousness, the questions that are at the top of this post embody the type of understanding that we all should strive for with our customers. Possessing this understanding empowers business owners to be proactive in presenting comprehensive solutions that meet their customer's needs, spoken or otherwise. In turn, customers or prospective customers are more likely to feel comfortable in their business dealings with you. A comfortable environment yields transparency and fosters a more fruitful relationship. Business is also sweeter when you're dealing with a reliable partner that you trust. An all-around win-win.
Discover, Connect, Serve
So, ask yourself, what do I really know about my customer? If not today, at some point, take the time to engage your customer in a new way. Issue a survey, do research, or simply initiate the conversation. Do whatever it takes to learn something new about those that you strive to serve.
Understand, that this is not a one-time effort. Needs, interests, challenges, and nuances evolve with time. Remember: date, date, date.
Fostering Lasting Connections
Building strong customer relationships goes beyond transactions. It's about connecting on a deeper level, understanding individual needs, and fostering a sense of trust and transparency. As a business owner, embracing empathy and curiosity empowers you to serve your customers better. Take the initiative to learn more about your customers and discover the insights that will guide your journey towards lasting partnerships.
The conversation starts now - open the door to understanding and watch your business relationships flourish.
We do an extensive job of getting to know your customer in our signature program, “Built To Scale”. It is one of the foundational elements of your business blueprint. Click “Request A Call” if you’d like more information about Built To Scale.
