Do you support your community?
Yesterday, while visiting one of the charming wine country towns, Kristi and I stopped in an artistic novelty shop to pick out a gift. As a matter of conversation, the store owner asked our plans. We shared that we had a reservation at a nearby restaurant, one of Kristi’s favorites.
We were both dismayed to hear, “Oh the town locals do not eat there any longer because of the horrendous service. We prefer this other restaurant…”
The shop owner’s response was poor on several levels.
1. She completely disrespected a fellow local business
2. She ignored the fact that where we had our reservation was a favorite
3. Her marketing message was that of superiority which will turn off many of her own prospects
4. If anyone ever gets wind that the store owner does this, her own business will dramatically suffer in return
When you change your mindset to offering advice/help when asked and otherwise listening to provide appropriate response, you will enhance your customer service image and invite a returning and referring clientele – the essence for business development and turning prospects into clients.
Building relationships with everyone you come into contact – whether your community, a store or online. Listening, not talking will do more to keep you on track for closing more sales and ensuring they are each a Smooth Sale!
