Building customer trust

While it would be nice, trust isn't something that automatically comes with signing on a new customer. That trust has to be earned. There are always ways to build up that faith and turn your company into your client's go-to business whenever they need something.

Send out photo cards
Send greeting cards year round to maintain contact with your customers and thank them for their loyalty. If you've never met your customers, you might consider sending Christmas photo cards so your customers can actually put a face to your business's name. Including a staff photo is a great way to introduce your team to your contacts. Browse through our collection of photo holiday cards to choose one that best suits the personality of your company. Choose a photo that is both professional and approachable so your customers feel comfortable coming to you for anything.

Be respectful of competition
If a customer asks you about a competitor of yours, it may seem like second nature to talk yourself up and put the other company down. However, being civil about competitors can actually work to your advantage. Speaking respectfully about others' products and services can make you appear competent and professional.

Fix problems
Should a problem ever arise with the product or service that your company provided, always work with your customer to fix the problem. A client doesn't want to hear excuses, they want their problem fixed. As long as you can put the time and effort into fixing whatever issue they have, chances are that trust will still be intact after any challenge.

Be upfront
Usually a customer can tell when you're not being entirely transparent about something. Always be honest when you're speaking with a client. It's better to admit a mistake and work toward a solution to fix it than to tell a lie. You will be admired for your honesty.

Keep promises
If you say you're going to offer free shipping or a discount on a certain product, follow through on that promise. How are your customers supposed to trust you if you say one thing and then do another? Be sure that you're making promises you know you'll be able to keep. Of course, keeping promises also applies to the small things, like showing up on time to a meeting or calling when you say you're going to call.