Common Courtesy by Bob OsgoodbyHave you ever gone into a store and wasn't able to find anyone to help you? If you walk into some your major discount chains, you might see something that is of interest, but trying to get information about
product however, is impossible sometimes.
While you might save a few bucks by purchasing from these chains, is it worth
risk to buy something that may not meet your needs? If you are frustrated with their approach to doing business, it can even be worse in
online arena.
It seems that some entrepreneurs either don't know how, or don't care if they are responsive to their customers needs. Well folks, I got news. I'm
customer, and if you want me to buy from you, you had better give me
courtesy and attention needed to get my business.
How many times have you sent an email to someone requesting more information and never gotten a response? This is simply being unresponsive. This would be like a salesperson in a "brick and mortar" store walking away and ignoring you if asked a question.
If you are going to succeed in an online business, you must be responsive to your customers. A timely response to emails is critical. Many people use auto-responders and send a reply immediately. This is fine if
response that is sent answers
question. But even if it doesn't, you have shown that you are responsive with your immediate reply. You must however get back to them in a reasonable time.
While I like a waiting time of no more than 24 hours, realistically it could be longer. If it will be longer, let them know that with your auto-response. If you say it will be two days, and get back with
answer sooner, all
better.
But many times you can either eliminate
need to respond, or reduce it significantly by trying to answer questions before they are even asked. Your web site is
perfect place to do this. People trying to make a decision to purchase from you want information on what you are selling.
This is one case where brevity is not
best approach. Your ads should be brief, or they won't be read. Your web site however is another story (no pun intended) - here is where you want to give as complete information as possible.