What do you do if your communication skills aren't building relationships with clients and customers?

Assess Honestly: Start by taking a candid and look at your current communication Are you truly listening to what your clients and customers are saying, or are you more focused on your response? Active listening is key- it involves not only hearing the words but also understanding the intentions and emotions behind them.reflect on your body language, tone of voice and the clarity of your messages.Sometimes the issue might be as simple as not conveying your thoughts effectively. Remember honest self-assessment is the first step towards improvement.

If my communication skills aren't effectively building relationships with clients and customers, I prioritize enhancing my interpersonal abilities through targeted training and feedback. I practice active listening to understand their needs and concerns better. Tailoring my communication style to resonate with diverse audiences fosters trust and rapport. Seeking regular input and adjusting my approach accordingly ensures alignment with their preferences and expectations. By continuously refining my communication strategies, I cultivate stronger and more meaningful connections, enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty in my business relationships.

This can be the hardest part, show up and ask for feedback without defending your position. There has been certain situations where I have resisted wanting to ask for feedback but knew I needed it to progress. When I'm feeling this way, I use this challenge question "Michelle, what is your priority, To be right or to be better?" I value being better over being right.... you pick the value for you that is stronger than your ego. Here are two more examples - What is your priority, To avoid criticism or build a successful business? What is your priority, to spend your time doing what you want or to spend your time getting to the heart of the issue? Face your fear and find your priority, do that and you'll never shy away from feedback again.

This is the most important step, as the only way to build authentic connections and relationships is by being transparent and vulnerable. Don't fall into the trap of assuming you know what your employees want. Asking for feedback doesn't give the impression that you don't know what you're doing - on the contrary, it shows your willingness to learn and that you are putting your clients' needs first. Not only will they be willing to offer you feedback, but this ask in and of itself will help strengthen your relationship with your clients.

Adjusting your communication approach based on feedback is crucial for building strong relationships with clients. In my experience, being flexible and responsive to each client's unique needs has been key. For some clients, simplifying language and being concise has improved understanding, while for others, showing patience and attentiveness to non-verbal cues has made them feel more valued. Adapting your style to fit individual preferences not only enhances communication but also demonstrates your respect and commitment to their needs. This tailored approach can significantly strengthen client relationships, leading to better satisfaction and increased loyalty.

Following up after client conversations is essential for building strong relationships. In my experience, sending a follow-up email that summarizes the discussion and outlines next steps has proven invaluable. This not only helps prevent misunderstandings but also shows your commitment and attention to detail. It’s an effective way to demonstrate that you are actively engaged and care about their needs. Additionally, these follow-ups keep the conversation going and reinforce the relationship. By consistently following up, what might initially be a one-time interaction can evolve into a lasting business connection. This practice has helped me turn many first-time clients into long-term partners.

Maintaining a positive attitude in all communications is crucial, especially when building client relationships. Positivity not only makes interactions more pleasant but also helps navigate challenging situations effectively. In my experience, approaching conversations with optimism has often defused potential tensions and led to more productive outcomes. A positive demeanor encourages open dialogue and fosters a cooperative environment. Remember, your attitude sets the tone for each interaction. Keeping communications upbeat and constructive influences how clients perceive and engage with you, enhancing the overall relationship and paving the way for successful collaboration.