Being in a client relationship role that involves building trust with various clients can be hard work. You often need to spend weeks getting to know your current and prospective clients before finally building up enough of a rapport for them to sign on the dotted line.
Though it would be nice to rely on your natural gregariousness, sometimes you need to get strategic with this process. If you’re not having much luck securing new leads and building trust, the following tips may help.
Corporate Gifts
Something as simple as personalised corporate gifts can be your opening into a client’s inner circle. Not only are gifts unexpected, but they are usually also appreciated, especially if you haven’t yet had a chance to get to know a client all that well.
Corporate gifts are inexpensive when purchased in bulk, and they can suit many occasions. Whether you’re trying to build trust, rejuvenate a diminishing relationship, or celebrate a special milestone, they are undoubtedly a go-to option. Just be sure to select only the finest quality corporate gifts.
Be Respectful Of Their Time
Your appointment with a prospective client is likely not the only one they will have in a day. They may have many commitments throughout the week, with a set schedule that possibly has very little wiggle room.
As a result, it’s crucial that you’re as respectful of their time as possible. Arrive early or on time for meetings, and attend conference calls with a few minutes to spare.
It’s also important to ask if they are free to continue chatting if your meeting looks like it’s about to go overtime. Otherwise, be prepared to reschedule.
Fit In With Their Schedule
As important as your schedule is, your clients’ can be even more important when you’re trying to land a valuable business deal. If they are only accessible before work, after work, or during your lunch break, making the sacrifice can be worth your time.
When you’re willing to go the extra mile for the sake of a business deal, your potential client will see it as a willingness to cater to their needs. Just don’t forget to account for the overtime if you end up working outside of business hours.
Keep Your Word
If you say you will get back to your client with some information within the working week, keep your word. If you say you will send a follow-up email to find out how they are tracking, make sure you do it.
By keeping your word, you demonstrate that your company is not one to offer empty promises. Even if things don’t go to plan and you can’t deliver on time, a simple email to communicate this to a client can keep the relationship sweet.
Provide Clear Communication Avenues
With multiple communication methods in today’s modern world, it’s easy for important information to fall through the cracks. Emails can get lost in cyberspace, and important documents can end up swamped by a pile of other papers on your desk.
To avoid losing trust through avoidable oversights, establish sound communication methods that work for both of you. For example, you might have an online workroom set up for you and the client, or you might follow up with a phone call every time you send them an important email.
It can take weeks, months, and sometimes even years to build up trust, but it can take just a few seconds to break it. Maintain healthy relationships with new and existing clients by employing the strategies above.