What do you do if your initial job requires building rapport with clients or customers?

1. Active Listening: Pay close attention to their needs, concerns, and preferences. Show genuine interest in understanding their perspectives. 2.Establish Trust: Be reliable, transparent, and honest in your interactions. Follow through on commitments and deliver exceptional service. 3.Personalize Interactions: Tailor your approach to each client or customer based on their individual preferences and communication style. 4.Show Empathy: Demonstrate empathy by acknowledging their emotions, concerns, and experiences. Validate their feelings and offer support where needed. 5.Communication Skills: Communicate clearly, confidently, and professionally. Be responsive to inquiries, address questions promptly, and provide relevant information.

Understanding each client or customer's individual needs is paramount when trying to build strong rapport. Don't make assumptions or take a one-size-fits-all approach. Take the time to actively listen to their specific goals, challenges, communication preferences, and background. Ask insightful questions to uncover important context. The more you can tailor your approach to their unique situation, the easier it will be to establish trust and credibility.

In my work, I start by understanding where they have been. In management, knowing the current state (as is) is crucial to planning (to be). Clients typically apply multiple solutions to whatever problems they face before reaching out to an expert. Due to the unique nature of every business, they need to see your commitment to knowing their business in order to build trust and rapport. A solid question to begin with is "If you could magically solve any problem, what would it be?"

Clear, transparent communication is key. Don't try to impress with jargon or overcomplicate matters. Express yourself in plain language and confirm that your clients/customers comprehend what you're saying. Provide comprehensive explanations, documents summary of key points, and be upfront about costs, timelines and expectations. This open communication style creates accountability and prevents misunderstandings that could damage the relationship.

Consistency is low-hanging fruit when it comes to building rapport. A weekly call, just over the phone or a standing engagement. In my work, I send my clients articles or resources that could help them solve smaller problems. This is to show them that I am constantly thinking about their business.

Aim to personalize your interactions as much as possible rather than being transactional. Add small, thoughtful touches like remembering personal details, connecting over shared interests, or celebrating milestones together. Use their preferred communication channels. These personal flourishes demonstrate your investment in them beyond just making a sale or completing a project. Clients and customers will appreciate feeling heard and valued as individuals.

Be honest and transparent with your customers. Ask your clients/prospects for feedback & how you can best support their business and provide value with your relationship. Inquire on competitor best practices and consider ways to incorporate into your own approach.