Freelancers are more in demand than ever in today’s dynamic and unpredictable environment. But being in demand for your knowledge is only one half of the story. You must also ensure you produce high-calibre work that meets or exceeds customer expectations. After all, it is your ability to provide outstanding client service that will ultimately assist you in maintaining a consistent flow of work.
The customer experience spans the ways in which you provide your services from beginning to end. Over time, delivering positive, holistic customer service can help you stand out from your competitors and increase your revenue.
Whether it is a corporate giant or a sole trader, all businesses can benefit from focusing on the client experience. Let’s look at five client tips for contractors for giving your customers wonderful experiences that will keep them coming back to you again and again.
1. Put your customer first, always
While it may seem somewhat cliche, you should never underestimate the importance of placing your customer at the centre of everything your business does. This is one of the most important customer experience tips for business owners.
When competition for work is stiff, savvy business owners foster a culture where customers come first. They constantly create memorable experiences to win and keep customers. In this day and age, businesses of all shapes and sizes must improve the customer experience they offer to remain competitive and meet the rising expectations of customers.
This customer-centric approach is a straightforward idea that can benefit both large corporations, sole traders, and all businesses in between. Put this principle into practice by keeping your attention on your consumers and putting that focus into action in every interaction, even after your product or service is delivered.
2. Keep your brand experience consistent
Although branding may seem like something that only applies to large companies, it is equally crucial for independent consultants and small businesses. It’s important to highlight what you do and how you do it better than your competitors.
Building your personal brand is the first step in creating a brand identity for your company. Then, consider how you might offer a comprehensive brand experience. Make sure your brand symbolises the experience you want your customers to enjoy, regardless of the type of consultation you offer.https://www.bizcover.com.au/business-branding-guide/
This encompasses everything that works together to represent your brand, such as your company name, company website, logo, mission statement, and business cards.
Consider your own demeanour and professionalism in addition to marketing. As an independent consultant, you have the opportunity to personally represent your brand and establish deep connections with clients. Above all, make sure to leave them with a positive lasting impression.
3. Master the fundamentals
While maintaining your brand’s consistency and focusing on your customers is crucial, your client may be less likely to use your services again if you fall short of their expectations. You must get the fundamentals right, which means producing high-calibre work on schedule and to the client’s requirements.
Keep your client informed of your progress and always act professionally and courteously. If you encounter setbacks, explain to your client how you intend to overcome these challenges. Recognise when to interject or steer the conversation in a more positive direction, while ensuring you always pay attention to what your consumer has to say. Your objective is to produce the finest work possible, and that involves tapping into your full knowledge and expertise.
However, keep in mind that you must also pay attention to and positively react to valid criticism. Even though customers aren’t always right, there are some situations when it is advantageous to just agree with their suggestions, provided that it doesn’t negatively impact the finished product you deliver. Sometimes it’s worth losing the battle in order to win the war.
4. Know when to exceed expectations
One of the many advantages of consulting is the ability to balance your professional and personal life while working as a freelancer. However, there are situations when a tiny sacrifice will have a significant impact. For instance, doing work ahead of schedule can result in positive feedback and goodwill.
Be careful not to overextend yourself in this area, though, as it is very easy to go too far. You want to earn a positive reputation for going above and beyond for your customers, while also knowing when to distribute your time evenly across clients. Never skimp on quality merely to get something done quickly.
5. Speak to your client on their terms rather than yours
When it comes to dealing with clients, ensure that their preferred method of communication always comes before yours. Pay attention to how, and how often, your customers prefer to be contacted.
It can be a good idea to bring this topic up early in working relationships so that expectations can be established and met right away. You don’t want to alienate an existing client due to a misunderstanding or because they think you don’t “get” them. Building rapport comes easily when yourself and your client are on the same page.
By delighting your clients with wonderful customer experiences, you stand to increase your brand recognition, win over advocates for your business, and gain more referrals, all of which will earn you more revenue.
As an independent contractor, you can contribute to the long-term success of your independent contractor business by securing it with independent contractor insurance*. BizCover offers business insurance solutions for all kinds of businesses, giving you peace of mind coverage with zero drama. Get a quote today.
