If you’ve been in business for a while, it’s very likely that you’ve had clients ask “Can you recommend a place that…?” When this happens, how do you handle it? How seriously do you take this question?
A client asking you to recommend another business is a sign of trust not to be taken lightly. They’re asking because they trust YOU. If you refer someone flaky, someone you haven’t really vetted who doesn’t have your work ethic or business standards it reflects poorly on you. The guy you referred, sure he lost potential business but he didn’t have a relationship with your client. You do – or did depending on how badly the other guy screwed up. Now that relationship has been tainted.
What do you do if you don’t have a viable option and the client is desperate? You have a couple of choices. 1.) You can politely decline explaining that you don’t have a trusted source for that product/service or 2.) You can recommend a colleague with the caveat that you’ve never worked with them and you cannot vouch for the quality of their work.
That last part is absolutely critical. This tells the customer that you recognize their need but also value them as clients. Honesty goes a long way in this situation. I have rigorous standards when it comes to the reputation of my company. I will not apologize for it. Our clients know this and they trust and respect us all the more because of it.
Make sure the next time you refer someone they are worthy because flaky is only good for biscuits.
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3D Studios helps businesses grow their influence and their brands. As a boutique brand management agency, we begin with a thorough analysis of your needs and partner with you to develop and execute a marketing plan that will help you take your business to the next level. To learn more about how 3D Studios can help you, visit us at www.3Dstudios.net or call 914-304-4229.
