Change...the real constant!

It is said that change is the only constant. In our business, truer words have never been spoken. Clients are changing their business models, their staff and their communication methods.In fact, I can honestly say, none do business the way they did two years ago. Change is good! We all provide a service. Ours is to understand our clients needs and deliver solutions which in turn deliver results! Recently I attended a talk given by one of my industry peers, Mark Graham. His talk was entitled "10 No-Nonsense Ways Social Media Can Be Applied To Your Promotional Products Business". Wow, I am a no nonsense type of guy so, yes, he had me a hello! During his talk, Mark used many case studies to demonstrate how through the use of various Social Media, one could do market research, solve problems etc. Basically, he raised the profile of his organization within his client base and our industry. The bigger message (read my big take away) was much more than being told to master "new" technologies. The message is the same one delivered in many a course given by many a sales guru. Know that your business is about your clients, NOT YOU! Know that if you are not listening to your clients and taking the action to provide the best products, solutions and service, then Bye Bye...See ya! It struck me funny that people who tossed questions during this talk were more worried about how much time was spent "playing on the Internet"! Hello...since when are we "playing" at our business? Listen, if my clients are interested in Polo, I have to learn about Polo. If they are into cake decorating, I had better know something about that. If my clients are using Social Media to enrich their businesses, then I need to be on that platform as well. Bottom line. Be where your clients are. Communicate with your clients in the manner they want to be communicated with. Help your clients find what they need. Even if you cannot provide the service yourself, find an associate who can. Your clients will change. You MUST be willing to change with them.