I recently had a conversation with a former 9-year mayor of Abilene, Dr. Gary McCaleb. During the conversation, he told a story about a time when he failed as mayor. He was having a conversation with a restaurant owner and thanking the businessman for his gift to the community when the man proceeded to ask him, “why haven’t you been to visit my restaurant?”
How many times has this happened to you?
You are most likely not a mayor, but no matter what your profession, you have a restaurant [customer] much like the one in the story. Good restaurants keep your lights on, give you referrals, put food on your table and give you a purpose for your work every day.
Another positive response from making the effort to visit your restaurant is that it can create new opportunities for you. It may come in the form of a new contact because of turnover or a new opportunity for growth because of expansion. This new business is generally the easiest kind of new business you will receive, especially if the customer is a loyal customer.
Here are 5 things to do when you visit:
- Ask, “What am I doing well?”
- Ask, “What could I do better?”
- Listen intently to everything they say.
- Ask them “How can I give back?”
- Thank them for their loyalty.
So whether you are a CEO, director, salesman, coach, principal, nurse or business owner make sure you “visit your restaurant” and show them you care.
Also, like all exceptional wait staff, it’s the little things you do that will make your customer appreciate you and your service more. Customers watch and notice your actions. Pay attention to the details of every communication and transaction you have.
If you want to hear my conversation with Dr. Gary McCaleb please click here. Be sure to rate, review, and share with 3 friends.
leadershipislistening.com 