Here in Texas we have to get our cars inspected every year to make sure they are still safe to drive. I needed to get my wife’s car inspected by the end of this month so I went back to the shop that did the inspection last year.
My Experience
I walked in and said I needed a state inspection. My conversation went as follows:
Guy behind counter: “It’ll be 45 minutes to an hour.”
Me: “So you’re saying I’ll be out of here in an hour?”
Guy: “There are no guarantees. My inspector is out and I’m the only one that can do the inspection.”
Me: “When does your inspector get back?”
Guy: “Next week.”
Me: “When is a better time to come by then?”
Guy: “Around 7:30am. Before the phone starts ringing and things get busy.”
Me: “Thanks, Dave.”
The employee/manager never made eye contact with me during this conversation. I jumped into my car and left.
I know you’re busy, but…
If you are busy, don’t blow off your customers. Why did I have to ask 20 questions? Even after the questions, I was left with the impression that the guy behind the counter just wanted to get rid of me.
All businesses get busy times. However, just because you are swamped doesn’t mean your customers will quit calling. To ensure that you still appease your customers you need to remember these steps when you are super busy:
- Explain why you are busy.
- Express sympathy for the customer and still show you care even though you can’t service them right now.
- Give the customer some options. Offer different times the customer could return or call you.
- If you know you can’t help them, don’t send them away empty handed. Refer them to another company you respect.
By taking care of your customers’ perceptions and needs even when you are busy, you’ll be sure to make the good impressions that will keep you busy for years to come.