World-Class Customer Service for World-Class Customers

I am using the same vet for 15 years. My family uses it, and so is my wife's family. Over the years, we took a staggering number of dogs and cats, as well as assorted rabbits, guinea pigs and other animals. We have developed a bond with him over the years. I also meet regularly at the YMCA, where I train.

It 'a really nice man. He always calls me by name, asking: "Steve, how are you?" He always asks me to my sister. There's only one problem: my name is Steve, and I am an only child. He must think I'm someone else. I fixed a couple of times, but this has gone on for so long that I doubt will ever figure out who they really are.

I love my vet. I'm not taking my pets elsewhere. But he reminds me that for most of us in business, we do not have the luxury of not knowing our customers, especially our long-term, high-volume customers. For most companies, about 80 percent of revenue comes from about 20 percent of your customers. And that 20 percent must be treated well, even better than you treat your other clients.

Long-term customer means increased profits. Industry experts say that it costs 6 times more to land a new customer as it does to maintain a current. Here are 4 ideas to keep your best customers happy and loyal:

1) find out where your best customers are going - before you go there. The company can supply parts for a new product? You can help your customers as they expand in a different region? A company that is growing through tough, difficult situations. If you can be a strong partner in this period, the best customers wont forget!

2) Listen to their complaints and suggestions. Your best customers see your business very differently than you. Use their unique perspective to your advantage. Learn from them what is good about your business - and what needs to be improved. There are 2 advantages for you. Yes, you might learn something that greatly improves your business. Two, make your best customers feel like they have a role in your success. Let them know when you implement one of their suggestions!

3) Give them special access. Your best customers should be able to reach key people in your organization. Consider creating a special telephone number that customers can call them. Dedicate one or more people to customer service to these customers, and make sure that people know these customers in and out. The fact that there are competent people to them means a lot for your best customers.

4) Give them a discount. The fact is that it costs less to sell to the best customers. No need to spend much on advertising for them. You already know their preferences and buying habits. So, why not give them a price break? Even a small reduction shows a customer who will appreciate them. This assessment will provide customer loyalty and future sales!

Says an old proverb, "Take care of your customers and your customers will take care of you." It 's especially true for your best customers. To treat them as the great resource they are, and they respond with loyalty and increased sales for years to come .......