How good are your client relationships?

Good working relationships with clients give us several benefits: our work is more enjoyable when we have good relationships with those around us. Also, clients may be more likely to go along with changes we want to implement, and we’re more innovative and creative.

What’s more, good relationships give us freedom: instead of spending time and energy overcoming the challenges associated instead, focus on opportunities.

When you take on a new client be patient in building this new relationship. Relationships take time. Take the time to get to know your client, and share a little bit of yourself. Get to know their industry and company. Keep up with your client’s company as well as their industry.

With new clients or even existing ones, go the extra mile! As you grow your business and your client relationships, there are times you have to make a decision on when to adjust offerings to cater to the needs of a client. Clients remember the times you came through for them and it may open up additional revenue streams and new product offerings further down the line.

Treat every client as your most important one. Simply put, happy clients are more likely to make referrals. Provide all clients with your best service, whether they are a Fortune 500 company or a small business.

Respond promptly. When a client emails you, acknowledge the receipt of the email as quickly as possible, even if you are unsure of the answer they are looking for. You may offer them comfort by simply acknowledging the receipt of their request and by communicating you are on it.

Sometimes we work with clients who might be a bit challenging. When this happens, make an effort to get to know the person. It’s likely they know full well the two of you are on challenging terms, so make the first move to improve the relationship by engaging them in a genuine conversation, or by inviting them out to lunch. Putting energy and focus on finding things you have in common rather than your differences. Remember – make sure the relationship is at least, workable!

Most importantly, remember your work for your client is paramount in building a relationship. At the end of the day, no amount of personal connection may substitute for great work! Have you got your client contracts in place? Need some direction with client business support? Click here to start the conversation!