Relationships are the backbone of business. You bring knowledge and know-how of the industry to your clients. You also consult and educate your clients, learn about their perspective, listen to their opinions and concerns, make recommendations, and help them make decisions. With good communication skills, you become trusted advisors for every client, co-worker and associate. Your business relationships are about creating positive collaborative partnerships every time. The power of good communications means a successful project and long term trusted relationships.
1.
Respect, Research and Prepare. This is at the top of the list for a reason because these three
words need to be in the back of your mind always. Before meeting a new client
or heading into a meeting on an on-going project, do your research. Know your
client, know the project, know the situation. Research is the key element of
your preparation before every interaction. Also, ask your client how they
prefer to communicate and what days/ times suit them best.
2.
Time is sacred.
Your clients are busy. Spend a few moments of your time thinking about the best
communication approach in a given situation and then ask your client about
their availability. Be respectful of your client’s time. Do not inundate a
client with correspondence and chains of emails. Prepare a pre- communication
agenda, and also have a short-term and long-term agenda on hand. This will keep
all interactions effective.
3. Know which form of communication to use and when. Does your client prefer emails or phone calls? What time of day is best for them? Generally, if a client calls you, you should call them back. Always respond in a caring and professional way, every time. Never direct a client to do his or her own research.
3. Know which form of communication to use and when. Does your client prefer emails or phone calls? What time of day is best for them? Generally, if a client calls you, you should call them back. Always respond in a caring and professional way, every time. Never direct a client to do his or her own research.
4.
Make your objectives clear. Prepare an agenda before your interactions so that your meeting
has a specific and defined purpose.
5.
Listen, take notes, and keep your notes. This benefits you, the client and the company.
6.
Get to know your client outside of the workplace. Get to know the individual. Remember that he or she has a
birthday.
7. Never take things personally. Everyone
brings life with them to work. It’s all one piece. Never take things
personally. Move on and stay focused.
8.
Always follow up. Remember those notes you took? Always send an email to highlight
what was discussed within 24 hours after a meeting. Document the
responsibilities given, tasks delegated, and any assigned deadlines.
9.
The power of thank you. There is nothing more meaningful to a client than a thank you—from
you.
