January 28, 2014
Decide to make selling more fun. Building great relationships is not just good business, it's also great fun. Consider: wouldn't you rather spend time with people whom you like (and who like you in return) rather than trying to manipulate people into buying stuff they don't need?...
January 15, 2014
Be a professional. Customers want to do business with individuals who are serious about what they do, and willing to take the time to achieve a deep understanding of their craft, their industry, and how the customer's business works.
...December 18, 2013
Keep an open mind. If you walk into a customer meeting absolutely convinced that the customer needs your offering, the customer will sense you're close-minded...and become close-minded in return. An open mind helps the customer be open to the relationship.
...December 9, 2013
Let yourself be vulnerable. Pretending to be Superman just alienates people. Building a relationship requires discovering the areas where you and your customer can work best together. This is only possible if you're willing to admit your weaknesses and limitations.
...November 29, 2013
Be consistant and reliable. People only offer loyalty to those whom they trust. Customers decide whether to trust you based upon your day-to-day behaviour. If it's unpredictable, they'll shy away. If it's consistant over time, they'll know you can be counted on.
...November 20, 2013
Get curious about people. People are drawn to those who show a true interest in them. Honest (but non-intrusive) curiosity helps you understand how you can better help your customers, while giving you the opportunity to learn new things and make new connections.
...November 14, 2013
"True customer loyalty means making the relationship is more important than making the sale.
Customer loyalty comes from having a strong relationship with your customers. When they see you as a friend and ally, they're reluctant to jump ship, even if it means they can get something cheape...