Simple, Great Customer Service Defined.

I can define customer service in three words. What are they? Above the curve. That’s right, now ahead of the curve but above it. Keeping clients happy is as simple of anticipating their needs so much that you are not only ahead of them with the anticipation, but you are flying so far above them that you start to meet their needs without being asked. You aren’t there to simply respond immediately to a request, you provide the service / product before the request can be made.

Being above the curve is easier said than done. You have to first gain the client’s trust, get to know him or her to develop and then predict their needs, then you have to have the resources to perform the magic of implementation without being asked. Time, effort, and attention to detail are all required to perform not only in anticipation of your client’s needs, but as answer to your client’s needs before the need even occurs.

If you can master this art, you will become in disposable to your clients. What else is better for your own company’s growth and job security? Nothing! So, it is worth putting the time, effort, and attention to detail into your client relationships. I hope this inspires you to reconsider your customer service tactics this weekend.

Until Monday,

Twyla N. Garrett

Four Things To Know When Starting A Business

So 2013 is the year you are going to do it! You're starting a business this year and you want to know what is in store for your new venture. First, congratulations. Second, say goodbye to your personal life!

I always tell people who want to start a business to ask themselves "why?" This question will help you understand what your goals are. If your answer is "to be wealthy" then head back to the drawing board. Chances are, especially in this economy, your business will not make money the first couple of years. That's right, you may be breaking even for a while. So, put off dreams of wealth until your business is able to survive for a couple of years without a profit.

Next, write a simple business plan. You don't have to write these forty to one hundred page plans anymore. Social media has shortened the attention span of many readers, and requires a lot more attention to other resources when it comes to investors. So, keep your business plans to the point and backed up by good research and financial projections.

Start collecting customers. Just because you open a business doesn't mean people will know about it. I suggest that you create a list of 50 potential prospects that you'll go after and begin making calls one by one. Start introducing yourself to potential clients. Let them know they have an alternative provider for the services/products that you offer.

Lastly, be brave. Owning and operating a business requires courage.

I'm available for business consultations. Find me on Twitter and send a DM for more info.

Until next time,
Twyla

Christmas Sales Down, Is Your Business?

I recently red a feed, via the Miami Herald, that Christmas sales and holiday sales are down when it comes to retail. Has this impacted your business?

I've been out to the mall and I haven't seen any ghost towns. So, it is hard for me to judge if sales are truly down or not. But, as a business owner I can say that this share has been hard. I've made it through, but the money could have been better! I guess we can all say this, right?

Based on this article, I want to know if you, a retailer, have seen a huge declined in sales, so far, compared to the last holiday season. Also, let me know your reasons as to why the sales may be down. Some business owners are blaming Hurrican Sandy and others blame the general economy.

I want to know this as I am writing a book on business failures and want to offer tips on how to muddle through though economic times. Follow me on Twitter and DM your story. Or, just comment below! I would love to hear from you.

In the meantime,
Happy Shopping!

Twyla Garrett