I am currently working on getting bids for a few projects. One of the things that I value most is my time, and I do my best to be as efficient as possible. My assistant many times can set up certain appointments for me, saving me the time and loss of focus associated with making those types of phone calls.

I met with one of the business reps at my location. He was personable, professional, and great to talk to. The type of work that I need done may take a bit of time, so I wasn’t shocked at all when he told me that he couldn’t give me a bit right away.

“I’d like you to come to my location, then we can talk about your bid.” he said.
I replied by telling him that I really didn’t want to take the time to do that and that it would be much more convenient if he could call, email, or even come out and see me again.

I was going to be in the area this week, and thought, “I can just stop by.” I set up the appointment, but when the assistant called me to confirm; I explained that I couldn’t make it due to a conflict.

I asked her to text or email me with any openings, and I would reply back to her as I was driving and couldn’t safely look at my schedule. “You can just call me when you get home.” she replied.

I again explained that a text or email is my preferred method of communication, and she replied again that she would await my call. That won’t happen.

Are your customers telling you that they want something done a certain way? What matters in business is not how you like to do it, but how your customer would like it done. Many businesses are afraid to do things differently. Sometimes we forget that change is the price of progress and success.

I recall in the early 1990’s people were afraid to do banking online. Now the majority of banking is done virtually. Be flexible, and open up your ears!