Being on the supplier side of the online market research industry, or any industry for that matter, the relationship with the client side is vital to the success of the company. Personally, how I interact with my clients on a day-to-day basis is the best indicator of how a project or “account” is going. The article below does a great job of explaining how to humanize those relationships, and therefore improve them: with humor!
As the article implies, there is a time and place for everything. However, the idea that every piece of business communication doesn’t need to be a formal, straightforward email or phone call is refreshing. It reminds us all that we’re human, and a little bit of humor (especially at your own expense) can really help to make your clients feel comfortable with you. Some of my most productive phone calls are a result of light discussion or joking at the outset. It helps to break the ice, even if it’s someone you speak to every week.
This article reminds me personally that the client relationship goes so much further than just deliverables and timelines. By sending them simple “check-in” emails, articles about their business or home, and yes, even including some humor in your communications, you deepen the connection with them, and help your company’s relationship with them to grow from the dreaded “v-word” (vendor) into the idealistic “p-word” (partner).
Read the article below, and let us know what you think!