One day I realized,  that although I love what I do, and feel blessed that I own my own business that I enjoy,  it dawned on me that  without my customers it would just be an expensive hobby.

My clients are what keeps my business up and running. If they aren’t happy and don’t want to keep doing business with me, I’d have no business.

I’m always  saddened when I go to a restaurant or store and the employees have a poor attitude because  I know how much this is going to hurt the owner’s business. I’m not blaming the employees by the way. Often, they are mimicking their employer, and if they aren’t  treated well, it trickles down to the customers. But sometimes people just have a bad attitude.

Don’t underestimate the importance of good customer service. It’s one of the most important parts of marketing.  When people are happy, receive good service and feel appreciated, they come back and they’ll tell their friends. A poor reputation is  like gaining weight. It’s much easier to put it on and it takes way longer to get rid of it.  It reminds me of the old adage, ” You don’t get a second chance at a first impression.

I was sitting in a waiting room at a busy medical office yesterday. I was waiting to get an X-ray taken along with many other  impatient people. I watched people, one at a time go up to the counter to check on their status. The women who was the clerk, had the most magnificent smile and charismatic positive energy I have ever seen. She brightly smiled at each person and as a result, they all were kind and  not one person complained to her. It was phenomenal really. I hope she was  really well paid.

Here are a few things you can do to beef up your customer service and believe me, it will go a long way!

1. Offer something complimentary or free. People love free samples and it feels very giving.  It’s great marketing and it allows a client to get a taste of what you offer.

2. Send a thank-you card or postcard with a big, “Thank you for being my customer,”  statement.

3. Ask people what they need,  and try to meet that request if you can. Looks for ways to say, “yes.”

Remember that your clients are the most important people on your team. Keep them happy and your business will flourish!

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