The Martha Rules: Rule #4

Rule #4: By sharing your knowledge about your product or service with your customers, you create a deep connection that will help you learn how best to build and manage your business.

 

 

When I got to this rule a big smile formed on my face, because I think I do a pretty good job of doing this already and with the help of this blog I am able to share my knowledge, tricks, and tips with all!

 

 

Martha recommends to extend the connections. What she means by this is to get constant feedback from her clients/customers. She always wants to know what she did right, what she did wrong and what she could have done better.

 

Another key to rule #4 is making sure that love and concern is returned. I find myself doing this with all of my clients. Decorating is such a personal thing that it is only normal that you are going to form a strong bond with your clients. Many of my clients turn into friends during the process and that is just the icing on the cake.

 

I found myself nodding in agreement again when Martha mentioned the importance of developing the appropriate attitude. I find this to be true not only in business, but in life. I use to be a very negative person. I was constantly complaining about things and it got to the point where it was driving me crazy. One day I just decided to put a stop to it. I know try to deal with every situation with a smile on my face and take a deep breath before I freak out. I also treat everyone how I want to be treated from a client  to a family member to the check out person at a store I’m always super friendly and respectful.

 

Martha also had some gems that deal specifically with clients. She wants you to remember that customers are your best consultants, to think like a customer and see beyond the initial transaction.  I have to totally agree with Martha on all counts. A new client or customer is a great resource of information. They can help you come up with something new that you never thought of incorporating to your business like adding organization packages to your design business.

 

This  by far has been my favorite chapter. Perhaps because I feel like I already do many of things that she recommends and feel a bit ahead of the game. Then I have to remind myself that I started my business without a business plan (ah bad business owner) so I must get to work on that!

 

Of course I needed to add some pictures and decided to sprinkle this post with some projects I worked on. To see more of the black and white bathroom above head over to Plush Palate where I am guest hosting today!