There’s no denying it’s been a tough few years for businesses, especially in business financing. With so much negativity surrounding us, it can be difficult to keep a smile on our face and a spring in our step. But attitude really is everything, especially in business. Here are 3 pointers on how to be known as a positive company to do business with when so many others have become bitter:
- Common Courtesy. Unfortunately, it isn’t so common anymore to encounter gracious people, but when you do, it’s a breath of fresh air. Make it your goal to be a pleasant person to do business with. Remember the little things like saying thank you, smiling, being respectful of your clients’ time, keeping your conversation positive and professional, deliver on your promises.
- Go the extra mile. Beyond providing positive interactions, make it a habit to go the extra mile. Excellence in customer service will always stand out from the crowd, but it will also always require extra work on your part. Willingly do those extra things to make your customers’ experience with you unforgettable, such as throwing in extra product for free, or giving them a discounted rate on services. Not all your efforts have to have monetary value: your client might request a project deadline sooner than would be convenient for you, so make the commitment to work extra to get it done for them.
- Remember your purpose. All of this will come naturally if you keep your mission in front of you. Negative and stressful circumstances have a way of distracting us from the real reason we do what we do. Reminding ourselves why we are in business in the first place provides us with motivation that is more long-term than the temporary situations we find ourselves in.
The current economy may be negatively impacting your business, but it doesn’t have to limit you. For the business and customers you do have, be known as the good guy in bad times.
