Hello, My Name Is…

Networking is one of the most effective ways to make new connections and build your business.

To get the most out of your time at networking events, follow these tips from Inc.com.

• Set a goal.Even if you only plan on staying at an event for 30 minutes, set a goal of how many people you’d like to talk to. Having one or two quality conversations is more beneficial to you than a dozen conversations of small talk.
• Ask for introductions.If there is someone in particular you would like to meet at an event, ask the host or a well-connected colleague to introduce you. Being introduced by someone else in authority or who is well-respected gives you more credibility.
• Listen more than you speak.Ask people questions and focus on really listening to what they say. If you take the time to listen to someone, you can find a way to connect with them, which will make you more memorable.
• Share personal stories.Just exchanging chitchat or compliments won’t make you memorable. But casually inserting a personal story or funny anecdote will make a lasting impression.

Source: http://www.inc.com/christina-desmarais/7-networking-tips-for-introverts-extroverts-and-the-socially-awkward.html

Reality Check

Author Kate Zabriskie said, “The customer’s perception is your reality.” Although networking may help you get new customers, good customer service helps you keep them.

Companies like Chick-fil-A, Amazon and American Express are known for excellent customer service; they’ve garnered this reputation by instituting good practices like these:

• Focus on the beginning and end of the customer experience.Because these are the interactions that a customer remembers most, these are the best times to wow your customers.
• Minimize the wait.Respond to your customers and help them make a transaction as quickly as possible. But if there is a delay, make it more pleasant by giving them an estimated time of completion, updating them often regarding the delay or sending a small gift as an apology.
• Automate processes that would benefit the customer.Human interaction is critical, but some transactional details may be expedited by automating the process. Details like completing paperwork can be done online to save a customer the time and inconvenience of meeting in person.
• Wow your customers.Don’t just give great customer service; do something memorable to wow your customers. Think of ways you can provide extraordinary service that your customers will want to share with their friends.
• Be quick to apologize.The customer may not always be right, but an apology can save a business relationship no matter who is in the wrong. Taking responsibility of any error or inconvenience will increase your customers’ satisfaction.

Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/micahsolomon/2014/06/05/expert-customer-service-advice-5-top-tips-of-all-time/

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