Whether your company has been around for decades or is just starting out, great customer service is the most essential tool for a successful business. Obviously, doing good work is important, too ‒ a friendly demeanor isn't going to matter much if your employees are notorious for making mistakes on the job. But the most thriving enterprises are founded on superior client satisfaction. Here are six changes you can implement to guarantee your customers always come to you for their home improvement needs:
Improve Communication
A relationship can't survive without continued contact and attention, and the contractor-client relationship is no exception. Return customer calls right away. Stop in at the job site at least once a day to check in and say "hi" to the client. These small gestures can greatly enhance your connection with the customer and show them that you have things under control.
Solicit Feedback
Part of building a business is figuring out what works ‒ and what doesn't. Use phone or email surveys to ask customers how the job went, if they were happy with the final product, and if they have any suggestions. This will not only indicate that you care; it may also provide you with some helpful recommendations for the future.
Make Sure Your Employees Always Say "Hello"
It may seem trivial to you, but to a customer, whether or not your employees are pleasant and engaging can have a huge impact on how your company is perceived. A simple greeting ‒ and a genuine smile ‒ will make you and your team seem a lot friendlier.
Involve Your Customer in the Decision-Making Process
Sure, the paint color you've chosen might clearly be a perfect match. But confirming with the customer that it's exactly the shade they had in mind demonstrates your competency and makes your customer feel like they’re part of the team. This can also help you to sidestep some very avoidable errors.
Clearly Document the Scope of the Job From the Beginning
Ensure there are no problems later on by explicitly stating which items will and will not be included in the work you're doing. If you find out during or after the job that the customer incorrectly assumed something was part of the scope, there's going to be an issue, regardless of what's indicated in the paperwork.
Send a Thank-You Card
Few people still perform this small courtesy ‒ and that’s a good thing for you. You want your customer’s experience to stand out from all the rest. A short card thanking your client for his or her business is a nice cherry on top.
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