Date Your Customers - They'll Keep Coming Back

I'm sure you've heard 1000 times that "The Customer Is Always Right". Maybe they simply misunderstood or were misinformed. It's possible they were confused. They can even be stubborn or rude. But they are never wrong. Hmm... that sounds like some people I've dated.

Just keep in mind, that your customers are the reason you have a business. Without them, there isn't a business. You'd just have a nice office and a simple website.

That's why you should focus on your relationship with the customer. Like girlfriends, sometimes you have to work on that relationship. You need to spend time building the relationship through communication and relentless care.

Just like dating your girlfriend, there are rules to dating your customer. Here are a few rules for "dating" your customer. Take them to heart, and you'll improve your business relationship.

• Amaze your customers with unsurpassed service. The secret to quality customer service is to simply treat all of your customers well, while responding to their individual needs. One customer might require assistance and attention, while another would prefer to browse your store or website at their own pace.
• Proactively consider the needs of your customers, by focusing on service instead of sales. Pushy sales people will push customers away, but quality service will sell.
• Show your customer that you can be a flexible company. Instead of telling them, "that's against our policy," you should consider fulfilling a customer's reasonable request.
• Be a problem solver to your customers. If you are unable to assist the customer find someone who can. Even if you don't profit from the sale, customers appreciate your help. You might suggest alternatives or provide advice. Consider it an investment in the relationship with that customer-they might return in the future. Or, if you've suggested another company, that referral, might earn you a few in return.
• To ensure that your customers keep coming back, you should have a great customer service plan. Place it in an area that all can see. You're employees will understand why it's important to provide a positive customer experience and as a result your customers will return.
• Don't forget your employees. They are the ambassadors of your brand. If you treat them well, they'll treat your customers well. However, if you treat them poorly, their frustration will be reflected in their communication to your customers.