When you think about it, at the core of our customer relationships, it is really all about common sense. We need to approach our customers in the way we would like to be approached. Let's face it; we never really turn down an opportunity to talk about ourselves, and our customers are no exception. We need to be willing to really listen and encourage our customers to talk. Discussing their company's history, their industry, corporate climate, and plans for the future will all help us to learn about their needs and how we can provide value to them and their business.
Common sense also dictates that we treat our customers as we wish to be treated. That goes without saying, but perhaps the most important common sense approach we need to keep in mind is to be ourselves. The business world is ripe with catch phrases these days, and I think it is very important to not turn into a walking lexicon of business-ese. How often do we actually use the terms "paradigm shift" or "take it to the next level" in our normal conversations? We need to just be ourselves; be authentic, and I am betting our customers will be much more apt to feel more at ease and be willing to discuss their situation.
According to Webster's dictionary, common sense is "sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts". Sound, wise in handling practical matters, and simple. Those are vital keys we need to keep in mind whenever we interact with our customers.
"Common sense is the knack of seeing things as they are, and doing things as they ought to be done." C.E. Stowe
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