Impressing From The Outset: How To Get Potential Clients On Side
Did you know that it takes the average human being just seven seconds to form a first impression? In business, as we all know, first impressions count for everything, so it’s wise to focus on getting it right every time you meet a prospective client. If you’re looking to attract new customers and you’re desperate to impress, here’s a useful guide to help you get new clients on side.
Punctuality
If you’ve arranged a meeting, punctuality is key. Arriving on time shows a level of professionalism and it will set the right tone. If you’re running late, you may come across as unreliable and untrustworthy. Sometimes, things happen that make it impossible to get from A to B on time. If you’re stuck in traffic because of an accident, or you’ve had to take an urgent call that means that you can’t get to the office as planned, let your client know as soon as possible. You can explain what has happened and make arrangements for another time or date. It’s better to postpone or delay than to keep people waiting. If you’re a business owner, and you manage a team of employees that deals with clients face to face, punctuality and courtesy should be priorities for every member of staff.
Cleanliness
When you turn up to a meeting, you want to see a space, a room or an office that is bright, clean and welcoming. If you invite clients to your office, it’s worth investing in professional office cleaning services. A lack of cleanliness can put people off, and even if your pitch is really impressive, they may be inclined to choose another business. Ensure that meeting rooms are spick and span, and create a welcoming atmosphere using wall art, flowers and plants, and diffusers.
Customer service
Every client wants to feel like a VIP, and you don’t ever want prospective customers to feel like they’re putting you out or that you’re looking over their heads for a bigger client. Focus on individuals, add personal touches like addressing people by their names, and go out of your way to make each client feel welcome. Use your own personal experiences of customer service to shape the way you work and run your team, and ask clients for feedback. You can use reviews and comments to make improvements and highlight any areas of concern that need to be addressed.
Presentation
The way you present yourself says a lot about you and your business. If you’re meeting with new clients, you want to get off on the right foot. Make sure you look smart, take the time to do your hair and freshen up, and instil the same values throughout the staff team. You don’t want to lose out on business because your employees look scruffy or unprofessional. Establish a dress code, and make sure every person knows what is expected of them.
When you only have seconds to impress, it’s critical to understand how to go about setting the right tone and getting new clients on board. Focus on presentation, punctuality, and customer service, and always ensure your business premises are fresh, clean, and clutter-free.