Social Media First Impressions and Beyond

by Jeanine Vecchiarelli                  return to JayVee Media Link LLC

A primary rule of social media marketing is to carefully mind the first impressions we create.  It doesn’t matter how good we are at what we do.  The fact is we don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.

We may be at the top of our fields. Our focus is always customer satisfaction; our products/services are the best on the market. But somehow as we meet a prospective new client, an issue may arise. Maybe a word is misspoken. Or a stipulation is misunderstood. Perhaps we leave unanswered a question or concern. It may be something very minor…at least to us. And suddenly we find that our reputations have taken a hit. In spite of our diligent efforts to clear the issue up, the fact that there was a lapse at all leaves a lingering doubt. And if those misgivings are shared, a small misunderstanding can escalate to a full blown crisis. It can seem impossible to scrub the bad impression from our clients’ minds.

It is not my intention to scare. I just mean to emphasize the importance of carefully guarding that good name we have all worked so hard to earn. From first meetings onward, it is our responsibility to make our clients feel they are our top priorities:

–Always show courtesy and respect.

–Make sure each point discussed is completely understood.

–Follow up after those first meetings!

–Address questions and concerns quickly and efficiently.

–Fulfill promises, ideally above and beyond expectations.

–Always let them know we appreciate their business.

–And if, in spite of our best efforts, something goes awry, work to correct the issue as quickly and diligently as possible.

What other ways can we ensure our impeccable reputations remain intact right from our first meetings with prospective clients? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below!