Many things are automatic for us on a personal level.
Things like …
- saying “please” and “thank you”
- offering a guest coffee, water or a soft drink
- or paying compliments when they’re due.
These simple gestures go a long way toward establishing and maintaining vibrant relationships.
But in the business realm, sometimes we fail to see how this simple principle of consideration serves us equally well. Smart business leaders look for opportunities to build up and solidify relationships with their clients. Strong client relations act as a leading indicator of a healthy, sustainable business operation.
Because of the not-so-positive economic climate, KJA’s been looking for opportunities to spread some simple cheer, to offer a hearty “good job!”. In turn this causes our team to focus on POSITIVE ENERGY. This little client relations effort is mutually beneficial: they feel bolstered, which makes us feel good, and at the same time – valued relationships grow stronger.
Most recently we gave a well-earned pat on the back to Glenda Stock, the owner of Alexandria’s McDonald’s. Her generosity to others was deservingly recognized in a recent front-page newspaper article. This wasn’t news to us – KJA has enjoyed the privilege of working with Glenda since she purchased the Alexandria stores 10 years ago. But we also understood that a front-page article wasn’t something you toss in the bin with your Brownie Melt box. So we jumped on the opportunity to design a commemorative keepsake, showcasing the article, as a gift for her. We dove deep into the proverbial bag of tricks, transforming this pulpy newsprint into something worthy of a framed place on her office wall. A carefully crafted collage, created from McDonald’s packaging, enhanced the article and drove home Glenda’s tie to the McDonald’s brand.
It was just a tangible excuse for us to say to her “GREAT JOB – and by the way, we really enjoy working with you.” (And can we just tell you how delighted she was to receive it?)
We think that’s what you call a WIN-WIN exercise.
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June 26, 2009 at 7:43 pm |
First off, no, I’m not related to “The McDonald’s” (I wish, but it wasn’t meant to be, c’est la vie)! Second, it make me happy that there are still companies out in the USA that reconize other companies for “whatever” it is that they have done. Third, I’m also proud that my cousin, Karen Viator, works for KJA, and I’m very proud of her, too.
June 29, 2009 at 1:45 pm |
Very cool gift. But then I expect nothing less from the gang at KJA. Job well done to you and Glenda!