|
How do you rate the service
of the companies you buy products and services from? Do you tell them about your
buying experience - good and bad? In the last two weeks I experienced major
customer relationship issues with Nextel, Winbook, Fidelity Master Card and BP.
I recently had some very
positive customer service experiences with Southwest Air and the
Intercontinental Hotel in downtown Miami. These companies consistently made me
feel welcomed and appreciated.
The most valuable asset you
have in your business are the people who have purchased from you. Do you know
who they are? Do you know how they feel about their experience of spending their
money with you? If you don't you better find out.
How do you find out? Ask. How
do you ask? There are a number of ways but first you must capture the data. Who
are they and what did they buy. This fundamental activity is so ignored I have
set up a new company that provides customer data base development and marketing
services. There are others that do this. I considered a joint venture. After
trying to reach a decision maker at several of them I concluded "they didn't get
it." So I am providing this service and it will be done right.
I remember when I first heard
it ... Spring 1985. I was sitting in the auditorium reserved for the annual
shareholders meeting of The Limited, Inc. Les Wexner, Chairman addressed the
audience with the opening comment: "Nothing Ever Happens In Our Business Until
The Customer Says: I'll Take It."
Since then I have learned
there are a whole bunch of things that need to come together in order for a
customer to say I'll Take It. Today I am addressing just one of them. Namely,
how the customer is treated before, during and after the sale is the single
biggest reason behind a satisfied, loyal customer and one that will never come
back.
What are you doing today that
will make your customers want to come back.
All the best,
Steve Pohlit, President
Exec Net Consulting
The Profit System
|