When you sign a new client, it’s tempting to immediately start celebrating. But it’s essential that you remain focused during client onboarding. The first 90 days of a customer’s experience sets the tone for the rest of your relationship, and whether the customer’s experience is positive will determine whether they stay with you — or find another business.
To build a solid, trustworthy, and valuable foundation with your client during onboarding, we recommend the following strategies:
-
Do your homework.
Don’t walk into your first meeting with a new client without knowing the ins and outs of their business. Before the first day, learn as much as you can about your new client. Read about the industries they serve, the customers they’re trying to reach, the aesthetics they embody, and the values they hold. This will not only ensure you’re knowledgeable during that first meeting, it will also help you make informed decisions down the road.
-
Stay organized.
Onboarding a client not only means learning about their business, but developing a strategy to manage the new workload. Take the time to organize the data your client sends you. Take the time to understand the way their business operates. Take the time to share with your business partners the information you learn. This way you won’t feel overwhelmed as you begin working with your new client.
-
Put the client first.
We all know the first rule of business: the customer (or in this case, the client) comes first. But how many of us forget this when onboarding a new client who has specific demands and needs we aren’t expecting? Within reason, remember that it’s important to accommodate a new client. Those first 90 days are a crucial period for developing trust and satisfaction.
-
Offer promotionals.
It might sound cheesy, but one of the best ways to make a good impression on a new client is still sending them a promotional. This might be a logo-embroidered dress shirt, a customized paper calendar, or something else unique to your brand. Safeguard has customized promotional items available for purchase to fit your business needs!
-
Send a thank you card.
A handwritten note goes a long way. As soon as you accept a new client, send them a thank you note that explains how excited you are to work with them, as well as how grateful you are for their business. If other opportunities to send handwritten notes arise, send them! Custom notes signal to clients that you’re willing to take the time to treat them well. Not sure what kind of card to send? Safeguard has you covered! Our representatives can help you design a custom card that fits your brand.
Want more business tips?
At Safeguard, we offer a variety of business solutions tailored to fit your needs. Don’t hesitate to call and talk with one of our consultants today!