Business
48
March | 2022
WARMTH REACH OUT
W R O
Contrary to a popular adage, just because you build
it does not mean they'll come. You need to actually tell
people that you have built something. Sometimes clients
will magically fall into your lap, but that is neither a
proactive nor reliable way to attract new customers.
You need to actively reach out and have conversations
with people. Be more proactive about engaging with
people via social media. Post more than once about
each thing you have going on, and post regularly. Be
sure to collect email addresses of new customers, and
send them—and existing clients—updates on specials,
new products, open houses, workshops, holidays, etc.
When someone reaches out to you about an inquiry,
respond to them—even if you can't help them—or refer
them to someone who can.
Treat every interaction with someone as if you're talking to
an old friend. Clients need to feel the warmth of your energy
and overall vibe. People don't do business with brands
anymore; they do business with individuals. So, when you're
stressed out and the phone is ringing off the hook, remember
that the person calling has no idea how busy you are. He
or she just wants to order flowers from you and be treated
as important. If you're only concerned with making sales as
quickly as possible to get customers off the phone and you
treat them rudely, you can kiss those customers goodbye.
A moment of kindness goes a very long way.
Warmth also extends to how you treat and talk to your
staff. Kindness does not make you a doormat; it makes you
human. Your staff wants you and your business to succeed;
otherwise, they wouldn't be working with you. Show them
the same warmth and kindness you show your clients,
especially during busy times.
