In this data-rich world of technology, many people neglect the immense importance of communication. They get so preoccupied with daily duties and various processes that they don’t get to spend enough time on meaningful communication with a client. Communication plays a significant role in almost every aspect of our lives, especially in business. While it can increase client satisfaction and improve our opportunity for success, it can also alienate the clients and ultimately break the business.
Luckily, successful communication doesn’t cost a thing. If you want to improve your client communication and build and maintain sound collaboration, you need to invest your time and energy into it. Not only will it pay off but it will also help you draw new invaluable clients. Here are a few tips how to make client communication more productive.
Define Your Services
Before starting any collaboration with a potential customer, you need to state what kind of services you are offering individually. Instead of trying to impress your clients with a full range of services you do, you should focus on one or few you are proficient at. This way you are wasting your time and energy on multitasking while aiming to meet all your client’s needs and preferences which can severely damage your business and career. If you clearly explain what things you are specialized in, the client will value your work more and will undoubtedly be more interested in your services.
Choose the Right Method of Communication
This modern era of ubiquitous energy-efficient technologies gives us an incredible opportunity to communicate by using so many means of communication that we sometimes cannot decide which one to choose. When it comes to business, choosing the right method of communication is crucial as it will determine how successful your future client collaboration will be. While some clients prefer face-to-face communication, others are more mail persons. Probably the best option is to directly talk to the client and ask them which one they prefer. It will improve the communication flow and increase overall productivity.
Keep Everyone Involved in the Project
Building an excellent communication with a client is not an easy ride. Sometimes it is best to include your client in all the processes and stages of project development from the start and avoid any misunderstandings, payment delays or even disagreements. There is a wide selection of agile project management tools for creatives that allow your clients to follow everything on the project ones they get access. They can see what you are working on, provide feedback and upload content if necessary. This will help you break any walls and build honesty and trust between you and your clients.
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Maintain Friendly Communication
It’s not a brainer that poor communication can quickly break your business. However, sometimes lack of proper communication is not the issue. Sometimes the communication with a client may suffer due to the inconsistency of given data or just inadequate language. Keep in mind that clients do not have to be experts in your field of expertise and they do necessarily possess the knowledge and the skills you and your team are proficient at. Translating web-speak into language that will be easily understandable and more meaningful to you client is imperative in building a successful relationship with your client.
Keep Your Clients Frequently Updated
According to research, the reason why many clients decide to leave the project earlier is that they are unsatisfied with information delivery. Make sure you communicate, communicate more and over-communicate. Keeping your customer regularly updated about all the phases of the project development especially in case if some technical issues arise, is invaluable for the client. Get ready to get down to the nitty-gritty with clients. They will appreciate the effort you are making to keep them informed, and they will not have reason to worry.
Rachel is currently working as the vice president of communications at Active Collab. After finishing her master’s degree in Communications she pursued a career in the digital industry, most notably in marketing and public relations.