Treating your clients in a kind and generous way

It has been a long time since I posted on my blog, and that happened so because I have been fortunate to get as many clients in the last few weeks as I could possibly hope for. Obviously, I am thankful for all the opportunity I have been given and I know that there is a factor of luck lying in there - however, I am also convinced that my approach to clients and the way I treat them has something to do with my current success.

What exactly I mean by treating your clients right?

Well, it is certainly no rocket science and you do not have to be a psychologist to encounter all the tricks.
Below, I present a few small steps to take in order to make your clients feel welcome and treat them the way they should be treated.

1. Use a helpful, kind and respectful  tone when communicating with them

Whether you reach out to clients via e-mail or phone, always find your best manner and try to be as kind as you can. I am not talking about being too flattering - after all, you are equal business partners - but applying a polite behaviour has never hurt anybody.

2. Offer them solutions specifically designed to their issues

Every company has a different purpose when they turn to translation services / freelance professionals. Some are in favor of reasonable prices, others are looking for a fast and smooth workflow. There are those who seek for not only linguistic but professional advice. As a pro translator, it is your job to find out what exactly your client needs - it is of predominant importance  for everyone who wants to succeed in this industry.

3. See the person behind the client

Every company is made up by human beings just like you. They have their strenghts and weaknesses, sometimes they win, other times they fail. Never forget to hold on to your clients whenever they experience a recession / crisis. As brighter days arrive, they will remember to the loyalty you demonstrated.

4. Always put your clients first

When you work in the freelance business, one thing is sacred above all: your biggest priority should be your client. I have met several aspiring and talented young translators who were simply destined to fail because no matter how great and valuable work they produced, they forgot to put their clients first. They were unwilling to work in the weekend when a client needed so. They put a friends' night out ahead of an important, last minute assignment. They never came to understand the fact that this business is of the client, by the client and for the client.

5. Be a little personal

Have you ever thought about cheering on your top clients on their birthdays and anniversaries? I think you'd have to! It takes a few extra minutes and only one small act of kindness. Send out birthday cards via email and make it a regular assignment.
As the holiday season comes, I am planning to surprise my dearest and most loyal clients with some colourful and funny well-wishes cards for Christmas. You should too!

What are your take on this issue? How are you engaging your clients? How do you make sure you keep them close and how do you appretiate their loyalty? Do not be afraid of sharing your words! :)