Whether it’s in business or in love, a successful relationship is governed by how you treat one another. That’s why I believe how you treat your clients should be very similar to how you treat your romantic partner.
Here are the eight key rules I follow to keep the spark alive:
Be honest
As in romantic relationships, someone who is ‘too nice’ can be a bit irritating or false. It can also lead to disappointment when they’re ‘niceness’ inevitably slips. Instead, be open and honest about your services so clients get to know the real you. A respectful and wholesome approach will show that you’re genuine, which will build trust and appreciation.
Focus on your differences
Being different to one another makes life interesting! It can also make life challenging if you’re unable to respect one another’s differences. As you would at home, take note of how your clients are different to you to better understand how to relate to them. For example, are they a chatterbox who likes a lot of discussion or do they need quiet time to reflect on big decisions? Doing the opposite of what they like may lead to a relationship breakdown.
Own up to your mistakes
Saying sorry when you’re in the wrong goes a long way to healing cracks in a relationship. People understand that we all make mistakes and recognising them ensures they don’t happen again. Apologising and offering some form of compensation through a discount or gift will go a long way to improving trust and respect.
Find out what frustrates them
Much like understanding your differences, it’s important to know what irritates your life partners and clients. Find out why their previous relationship/provider didn’t work out to ensure you’re compatible. If necessary and appropriate, you can avoid behaviours that will get on your client’s nerves This will go a long way towards improving client retention.
Be faithful
People’s wants and needs change with time, but this shouldn’t always signal the end of a relationship. If you want to keep things going, learn to adapt to your client’s evolution by offering new treatments and services that may be of interest. Don’t give up on them when things get tough!
Keep the romance alive
Never stop wooing! Your partner/client has invested their time in you, so do the same for them. Make them feel special and appreciated. While you’d take your romantic partner out on date nights, why not invite clients into clinic for an interesting evening of free education and demos? Remember, small things go a long way too so consider doing things like offering free healthy smoothies instead of regular tea and coffee.
Show your appreciation
We all want to feel appreciated and saying thank you when someone supports you or your business goes a long way. To really show how grateful you are, consider setting up loyalty schemes with special discounts and a VIP club, giving birthday gifts and treats during festive periods.
Remember they are always right
Even when they’re wrong, sometimes it’s easier to pretend your partners and clients are right! Doing so avoids unnecessary conflict, bad reviews and an upsetting atmosphere. Recognise when you should back down and end discussions on a positive note. Hopefully this will resolve any issues and, even if it doesn’t, you can truthfully say you tried your best and always acted with respect and kindness.
