We're going B2B!
B2B
It's not what you think it is!
We're not talking about Business to Business, we're going Back to Basics.
How has accepting a compliment become so difficult in our personal lives when it's the thing that we desire most, professionally?
The other day my friend admired my new hair style. My immediate reaction was to downplay the much-needed highlights and cut. She immediately admonished my sheepish acknowledgement, which led to a conversation about the act of complimenting and the reaction of acceptance. We are both small business owners and spend most of our meet-ups chatting about all aspects of our companies, so of course this line of dissecting personal-adulation led to how we absolutely expect it in our professions.
Because we do!
Business owners rely on the customer complimenting their product or service and relaying this to their friends. Without it, there would be no word of mouth. There would be no referrals or affiliates, ambassadors or advocates. A business would simply exist and hope for the best. Perhaps with some Mad Men-style advertising, a brand could TELL consumers what they do or produce but without the chance for engagement, businesses are left guessing how consumers feel about them.
We ultimately need to embrace the compliment. In the same vein, also accepting the criticism is the only way to grow, become better and let our customers know that their opinion is valued and they are heard. In order to do this, it's time to get a handle on interacting, communicating and collaborating; it's time to ENGAGE!
The word ENGAGEMENT can be overused and under-valued at the same time. Engaging without listening is the equivalent of getting a compliment regarding your new menu and responding with a comment about the new window coverings. If a customer wants to talk about the menu, then talk about the menu. Listen and absorb and respond accordingly. Lip service isn't going to cut it in 2021.
Perhaps if we take our professional attitude home with us, accepting accolades will become easier in our personal lives, as well!
If you're ready to get Back 2 Basics with your company, we've created a short list of easy daily touchpoints that can help you get complimented while sharing some love along the way.
The Top 5 Back to Basics list for your Brand!
Be open to community praise and suggestions alike by treating your social media accounts as real time COMMENT BOXES.
Listen and respond to the opinions in a timely and courteous manner.
Engage with your customers every day. This can easily be done on social media or in person.
Be seen and heard by reacting with respect. The world would be a better place if we all became members of the Mutual Admiration Society, sharing kindness and compliments.
Show gratitude. Begin and end your day with the simple act of appreciation and watch your community of users flourish.
Let us help you implement your Back to Basics list!