April 27th 2008
Love your customers as they have never been loved before! Part 4
12. CULTIVATE ONE OF YOUR MOST POWERFUL ALLIES IN THE DELIVERY OF SUPERB CUSTOMER SERVICE:YOUR SUPPLIERS (OR REALLY YOUR EXTERNAL PARTNERS)
Your suppliers can be powerful allies in the quest for exceptional customer service. In fact, they shouldn’t even be called suppliers - they should be called your external partners.
As you plan your business, identify those external partners who are the best of the breed. Pinpoint those companies who are recognised as the leaders in their fields. And then romance them the way you would romance your customers. Invest as much time and effort as it takes to get close to your external partners. Treat them extremely well. Pay them on time. Let them know what’s happening in your business. Recommend them to others. Involve them in your business. Invite them over for drinks. Buy them lunch. Get their ideas for improving your business. Continue Reading »
