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To Build Strong Business Relationships, Play Ball!
By Jill at Omni | June 4, 2008
We had the privilege (well, depending on your Cubs/Cards affiliation) last week to go to a Chicago Cubs game as part of a business meeting with one of our top clients, courtesy of one of their key publishing partners. It was a tough call – spend two days out of the office to build a client relationship, or stay here and get the work out. For any of us at Omni, and pretty much all small businesses, the one thing we all have precious little of is ‘time’. So where and how we spend it is critical.
But, time spent with a great client uninterrupted by phone calls, text messages and emails makes for better communication and ultimately a better appreciation for their challenges. We made the time to attend so we could really focus on issues our client is facing.
As we sat in a strategic meeting with the top editors and media representatives of Hanley-Wood, we were able to uncover opportunities to help our client that might never have surfaced otherwise. I felt we created a stronger bond with our client by taking time to support them and work together on a strategy for their business issues. In doing so, we were able to hear from some very intelligent and savvy editors about their perceptions and suggestions to help our client. It occurred to me that THIS group of people took time out of their very busy days to educate, entertain and demonstrate a partnership attitude with us as well. And that is one of the many reasons we, and our client, like working with them. Taking time makes a difference.
One last comment; I personally did my part to stimulate the local economy by purchasing a ball cap from Wrigley Field when it started to rain at the game. Of course, I cannot wear it at home since my daughter is a Cards fan, but who knows - it may have been just the good luck charm the Cubs needed to win that game.
Topics: Client Services |