The Five Step Guide to Effective Client Interaction

When it comes to Effective Client Interaction there is no set of rules for communication that can be used. Every single client is different in their own way, and each should be treated in that manner.  We need to understand that there are clients with whom you can minimize communication as their not interested in updates every single hour of the day, while others want you to hold their hands throughout the entire design process. However the client might be, let’s talk a look at how a few steps can help reduce client interaction problems:

1. Understand What the Client needs

Instead of merely talking to customers, understand what they say so you can accurately identify their needs and help them find solutions. Through the course of a simple conversation, you may discover that you offer a specific product or service that would make your customer's life more convenient. By offering that service, you raise the level of satisfaction and successfully cross-sell for your company at the same time. This can be done effectively once you understand what the client needs.

2. Ask Questions

Asking good questions is productive, positive, creative, and can get us what we want. Effective questions are open-ended and not leading questions. They are not "why" questions, but rather "what" or "how" questions. "Why" questions are good for soliciting information, but can make people defensive so be thoughtful in your use of them. Effective questions are questions that are powerful and thought provoking, so it is always good to ask effective questions and gain client confidence and clarity.

3. Engage the Client

Engaging customers means notifying them weekly or monthly on how the project is going. Weekly reports are important to facilitate project tracking and control and to keep your customer informed on the status and progress of your project. Updating them regularly keeps them up to date and the client can then share their feedback at each stage.

4. Using Examples

Using good examples compliments effective communication. Sometimes explaining a concept or suggestion just doesn’t cut it through email or on the phone. When this happens clients will appreciate you much more if you can provide real examples. Consequently, you’ll end up clearing up a lot of confusion and misunderstanding. For example, if you wish to nest specific elements in various locations throughout the layout, it would be an ideal choice for you to send them a wireframe of how you plan on structuring the site.

5. Smile and Use Common Courtesies

This seems like such a simple, obvious component to effective customer interactions, but sadly, it is one that is often overlooked today. Train your employees to greet every customer with a warm smile and a question like "May I help you?" You might be downright surprised at how these simple gestures can make your customers' day.

Communication is essential in all aspects of life, whether interaction is achieved through words, writing, or actions. Without effective communication there can be no mutual understanding between individuals, exchange of information, nor expression of true feelings thoughts or ideas. Know which clients deserve what amount of attention and degree of communication; it helps bonding with clients and achieves a good rapport.

About Author:

Shweta Samudra is a consultant in Systems Plus Pvt. Ltd. Within Systems Plus, she actively contributes to the areas of Technology and Information Security. She can be contacted at: shweta.samudra@spluspl.com