When you visit new clients, your goal is to impress them enough that you win their business. There are certain things you can do to make new clients feel comfortable and confident in you, as well as convince them that your services meet their needs. The following are tips for impressing your clients on the first visit and beyond.
- Focus on what you can do for them.
Think about your business and what makes you unique. Think about what you’re good at and the value you bring to the table. Focus on these advantages and provide your new customer with information. By focusing on what you can give to customers and making them aware of it, you’re increasing your chances of winning their business.
- Dress for success.
It's important for you to present the advantages of your business, but it really is equally as important to present yourself. That means you need to pay attention to your appearance. As the saying goes: You only get one chance at a first impression. Make sure you look neat and sharp and professional. We've got some tips on how you can change your look using clothes already in your closet!
- Give them your undivided attention.
We are all on our smartphones and tablets these days, but make sure you put yours away when you’re at that first meeting. Be sure to make appointments for these new clients when you know you can provide one on one attention. Customers don’t want to compete with your ringing and buzzing phone! And also, you don’t want to be distracted either—you want to get to know your new client and how you can meet their needs.
- Provide stellar customer service.
If you are a one-person shop, it goes without saying: make sure your initial contact with new clients is nothing but upbeat and positive. If you own a business, it’s important to hire the right employees who reflect well on your business from the first point of contact. A bad experience straight off is not likely to gain you any new clients. Be sure that your staff is trained correctly, they know what to promise and what not to promise, and they have a positive attitude when talking with clients, both new and old. It’s disappointing to be let down by poor customer service or products. The best place to start is with providing the basic services you have promised on time and with the highest quality. If you don't do this, it can be very hard to gain customer loyalty.
- Follow up!
Following up with new clients is another no-brainer, but one that can get lost in the shuffle. Call or email new customers two to three days after your first meeting. Ask how they are doing and if there is anything your business can do for them. This follow up contact shows that your business cares and allows you to fix any issues that may have arisen during or after their visit.
By providing the best service possible to new customers, you are giving your business a better chance at retaining these customers and possibly turning them into loyal, lifelong customers!