Every great business person knows that building trust with your client is of the utmost importance, but it is often hard to know the best way to do so. A trustworthy lawyer is in high demand, and not just for entertainment law like that discussed in this John Branca Harvard clip. If you’re not a lawyer, trustworthiness is still essential to building a relationship with your clients, no matter what business you are in. Here are some ideas for building trust with clients to get you started.
Communicate Effectively
Communication is key to making sure you are on the same page with your client and making them feel heard. Offer plenty of communication when beginning your relationship, and make sure to respond to any requests quickly. When a client feels they can’t reach you, they will feel like they aren’t a priority for you. If you’re overwhelmed with requests, it may be time to recruit an assistant. If you’re working remotely, virtual assistants can be helpful and affordable for lightening your communication load.
Be Clear About Expectations
If you have a conversation about your client’s expectations up front, it can save a major headache down the road. This way, you both know precisely what you’re getting into, which removes the ambiguity from the equation. When you take the extra time to get on the same page in the beginning, you can work more quickly and effectively, knowing you’re doing the job your client expects.
Take Some Initiative
To make your client feel like an even bigger priority, be proactive rather than only responsive. When clients think you are making an effort to reach out to them, they will be more confident that you are getting the job done. This shows a dedication to your work and builds respect and a positive reputation. Watch this John Branca Harvard clip for more on building trust with clients.
These are a few things you can focus on to improve your client relationships and build more trust. When you take the initiative to communicate, clarify expectations, and prioritize your clients, they feel the effort and appreciate it. Not only do clients expect you to complete the job well, but they also desire a pleasant experience working with you. The great news is, once they are satisfied with a job well done, they will be more likely to hire you for future work and spread the good word.
