A master carpenter hammers a nail never striking the wood. One. Two. Three. The nail is flush yet the hammerhead never grazes anything but the nail’s surface. The carpenter practices and perfects his craft – setting himself apart from others, less skilled. If you needed repairs or construction done on beautifully tooled wood, it’s well worth hiring the master carpenter. His reputation and skill precedes him. Customers seek him out. He’s consistent and knowledgeable in his work. He earns his requested wage.
Setting yourself apart is good in business. Hundreds may do what you do but rarely will two work identically. The differences may be subtle or blatantly obvious but I’d wager that the approach and customer service and processes vary.
Subtle differences used by virtual assistants to execute tasks can include: choice in software, online tools or programs, or the various steps involved to get to the desired end result
Obvious differences can range from something fully tricked-out to giving only the basics. From something that includes the processes documented for future reference and strategic planning to an “it’s done and here’s your invoice.” From a bonus informational product and/or live phone call for further consulting to “I don’t support the work provided.”
Customer service is a huge differentiator in my eyes. If the ball is going to be dropped it often happens here.
Businesses that drop the ball in customer service are those who don’t recognize that the customer service representative is another ambassador of your business. This frontline person is the face or voice to the customer directly in front of them. The owner can’t be everywhere. When a subcontractor works directly with one of your customers this sub needs to be aware that the customer service attention they implement and it’s reflection on your business name.
How do you set yourself apart in business? You should be able to think of key areas within your core services that make you standout. Your skills should be honed to elevate you. Make your customer service stellar.