What are the best strategies for building trust with clients during periods of uncertainty?

1 Communicate proactively

One of the most important ways to build trust with clients is to communicate proactively. Don't wait for them to ask you for updates, feedback, or reassurance. Instead, reach out to them regularly and keep them informed about the status of your projects, the challenges you are facing, and the solutions you are implementing. Be honest, transparent, and empathetic. Show them that you care about their goals, needs, and concerns, and that you are working hard to deliver value and quality. By communicating proactively, you can avoid misunderstandings, manage expectations, and demonstrate your reliability and professionalism.

2 Adapt to their preferences

Another way to build trust with clients is to adapt to their preferences. Different clients may have different communication styles, work habits, and expectations. Some may prefer frequent phone calls, while others may prefer emails or instant messages. Some may want detailed reports, while others may want concise summaries. Some may be more flexible, while others may be more rigid. To build trust, you need to understand and respect your clients' preferences and adjust your approach accordingly. Ask them how they like to communicate, how often they want to hear from you, and what they expect from you. Then, follow their guidelines and deliver on your promises. By adapting to their preferences, you can show them that you respect their individuality and that you are attentive and responsive to their needs.

3 Provide value and solutions

A third way to build trust with clients is to provide value and solutions. Uncertainty can create problems and opportunities for your clients. They may face new challenges, risks, or demands that require your expertise and support. They may also have new goals, ideas, or possibilities that require your creativity and innovation. To build trust, you need to provide value and solutions that help your clients overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. Don't just do the minimum or stick to the status quo. Instead, go the extra mile and offer suggestions, insights, and recommendations that add value and quality to your work. Show them that you are not just a service provider, but a partner and a problem-solver. By providing value and solutions, you can show them that you are competent and resourceful and that you have their best interests at heart.

4 Ask for feedback and act on it

A fourth way to build trust with clients is to ask for feedback and act on it. Feedback is essential for improving your performance, meeting your clients' expectations, and resolving any issues or conflicts. To build trust, you need to ask for feedback regularly and sincerely. Don't just assume that your clients are happy or satisfied with your work. Instead, ask them how they feel about your work, what they like and dislike, and what they want you to improve or change. Then, listen to their feedback carefully and respectfully. Thank them for their input and acknowledge their perspective. Then, act on their feedback and show them that you are willing and able to improve and grow. By asking for feedback and acting on it, you can show them that you value their opinion and that you are committed to excellence and learning.

5 Celebrate successes and milestones

A fifth way to build trust with clients is to celebrate successes and milestones. Uncertainty can be stressful and demotivating for both you and your clients. To build trust, you need to celebrate successes and milestones that show your progress and achievements. Don't just focus on the negative or the difficult aspects of your work. Instead, acknowledge and appreciate the positive and the rewarding aspects of your work. Share your successes and milestones with your clients and congratulate them on their contributions and results. Celebrate with them in a way that suits their personality and culture. For example, you can send them a thank-you note, a gift, or a testimonial. Or you can invite them to a virtual or in-person event, such as a lunch, a happy hour, or a workshop. By celebrating successes and milestones, you can show them that you are grateful and proud of your work and that you enjoy working with them.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?