I once attempted to plaster and paint my bathroom ceiling and it turns out there is a muscle (that I don’t have) which is required to hold a paint brush above your head for a long time.
I won’t be doing that again.
But, this hasn’t deterred me from simpler fixes, filling a crack and painting over it, that’s more my level.
I’ve learnt how to do a lot of simple maintenance stuff from folks who work at Bunnings Warehouse (an Australian household hardware and garden centre chain).
Every encounter I’ve had with staff at Bunnings has been very helpful, ranging from directing me to the product in their massive warehouses to also showing me how to use their products (including filling, sanding and painting).
Their customer service is consistently good.
I keep going back.
The best strategy for growing your business? Delight your customers, keep them coming back so they tell others about your good work.
For me, I love finding ways to improve our service and that of our customers.
That’s why I read “Never Lose a Customer Again” by Joey Coleman. Here were my takeaways:
1. The First 100 Days
These are critical. A customer’s loyalty is won or lost in this period. Be alert and focused.
2. Personal Attention and Emotional Connection
Treat each customer like they’re the only one. Build an emotional connection, it fosters loyalty and retention.
3. Keep Your Promises
Do what you say you will. This builds trust.
4. Consistent and Exceptional Service
Delivering consistently high-quality service and exceeding customer expectations ensures satisfaction and repeat business.
5. Stay in Touch
Regularly talk to your customers. This way, they know you care.
6. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
Actively seeking and responding to customer feedback is crucial for continuous improvement and addressing customer needs effectively.
7. Creating Remarkable Experiences
The book encourages creating unique, memorable customer experiences that set a business apart from its competitors.
8. Employee Engagement and Training
It also highlights the role of well-trained, engaged employees in delivering exceptional customer experiences.
9. Long-Term Relationships over Transactions
Coleman’s philosophy centres on building long-term relationships rather than focusing solely on transactions, thereby ensuring customer loyalty and advocacy.
Talk soon,
Lloyd
PS – Is your Customer Service doing OK but your operations could be better? Let’s chat.