I recently traveled to The UK where I own restaurants, Turkey and Croatia. I love travel, meeting new people and enjoying new experiences. While traveling there and here I am constantly reminded of the value of the Customer in all situations, from hotels to restaurants. Here are nine observations no matter where you are.
1. Everything is about the customer experience. I was treated like a king in some situations and lied to in others. I saw a lady break her arm on a tour. Her entire experience was based not on the tour itself but how the tour company handled her issue. Flawlessly ! They made arrangements for a taxi to take her to the hospital, an assistant accompanied her and kept the entire group informed of her status. She could not have been more pleased and will share with many when she returns to Australia. Hats off to Red Valley Tours for doing right.
2. There are opportunities in every field. Its not what you do but how you do it that matters.
3. Ask why not vs why it can't be done.
4.Marketing has never been easier for small businesses if you know your niche and speak to it. Focus on that niche and attract them to you.
5. Generalization makes for great conversation but knowing your niche makes for financial riches.
6.Peoples values must be recognized and appreciated. They know the customer, interact with the customer and will leave the customer with the lasting impression. Know what they want and give it to them.
7. People genuinely want to serve. If they don't you have them in the wrong position.
8. People know what they know - they know what they are taught. travel allows you to see a bigger picture and gain a broader perspective.
9. Get out of your comfort zone. That is where all the growth lies. Be curious and ask questions. The seeds of knowledge are in the listening not the speaking.
Every one of these issues re surfaced everywhere I went. When I arrived back in the States - the same applied, but the travel to see how others did it reawakened my resolve.
To Your Success.
Ron Laker