For businesses, first impressions “serve as the cornerstone of brand perception,” and significantly influence both customer attitudes and behaviours, highlights Forbes Councils Member Akram Atallah. Due to the fact that the ability to form quick impressions with limited information is deeply ingrained in human nature, businesses must consider how a consumer perceives their establishment on a consistent basis. For UK businesses that wish to revamp their image, cleanliness and customer service are two keys that are paramount to success.
A clean business is aesthetically pleasing, though the impact of a spick and span locale can result in other surprising benefits. One Business Wire article highlights the results from the 2017 Consumer Cleaning Insights Survey released by P&G Professional, which revealed that nearly three-quarters (74%) of consumers are more willing to overlook slow service if the business is noticeably clean. Attention to detail can be particularly beneficial, as frequent touch points (doorknobs, handles, payment counter, bathrooms, etc.) have the potential to impact the health and wellness of others.
Regardless as to the type of business, professional commercial cleaning services can be a great way to stay on top of the physical cleanliness of your business. Scheduled cleaning by a reputable and professional company is particularly beneficial for property owners or realtors who may not have the time or experience to carry out such tasks. This can be especially crucial due to the fact that a property’s look and feel are key selling points, not to mention that a professionally cleaned property reflects well on the owner and agent who are showcasing the place. With that in mind, a reputable company that offers a tailored experience is the ideal way to go. With the help of a specialised maintenance and cleaning plan in addition to a routine schedule, the creation of a lasting first impression can become a natural habit.
Good customer service may seem like a basic element of success in business, though the benefits can pay off greatly in more ways than one. UK customers are “more than willing” to pay a premium for goods and services in exchange for excellent service, highlights a report from The Institute of Customer Service. The report further revealed that nearly half of customers (41%) who are dissatisfied with a business say they avoid using it again. For businesses that aim to revamp their customer service strategy, customer appreciation is a great place to start. Rolling Stone highlights several helpful strategies that can be used by businesses in order to show customer appreciation. Handwritten notes, loyalty incentives, and the prioritisation of meaningful experiences are all strategies that can help. Starbucks is just one example of a well-known brand that prioritises customer experience — the coffee powerhouse’s loyalty program gives customers ‘stars’ each time they purchase a drink, which can later be redeemed for free product.
The celebration of customers on social media is a great way to put your appreciation out there. Businesses can hold customer appreciation days with special one-day offers or discounts and advertise via social media. This enables brands to showcase their customer appreciation while getting the word out there. Social media can also empower businesses to put the spotlight on their customers via video testimonials, review highlights, and featured customer stories. In doing so, a business can become more reachable by their audience, all the while providing first-hand insight into what your brand means to them.
Customers often draw a first impression of your business within the first couple minutes, typically with very little experience and information to go on. As such, a clean and well-kept environment as well as impeccable customer service — and appreciation — can show the average consumer that you will put them first.
