Are you doing anything at all to make yourself memorable? By ‘yourself’, I am referring to your small business. To be successful, your company needs to standout from competitors to be memorable when they need your products and services.
Our niece was recently married at a lovely Fall outdoor ceremony. She and her new husband left a few days later for a romantic trip to Europe. They spent some time in Venice. From there, planned a train ride to Stuttgart, Germany where they would pick up a rental car and drive through the Alps.
Leaving the hotel for the train trip, they hailed a taxi. Their cab driver was very friendly, pointing out spots of interest along the way. Asking if they were in his country for business or pleasure, they shared that they were on their honeymoon. Like anyone would, hearing their happy news, he offered his congratulations to the happy couple.
As they neared the train station, the driver pointed to a nearby building, telling them it was the train station. Explaining that he was turning off the meter and assuring them they had sufficient time to make their train, he said that he wanted to show them something nearby. He asked our niece, Shawna, to close her eyes. She felt the cab slow and pull over to the curb. Telling them he would be right back, he hopped out of the cab. In minutes, he was back, telling Shawna she could open her eyes.
He had driven to a nearby floral stand where he bought her a gift — a beautiful floral ‘necklace’. Explaining that he had planned to get her a bouquet, but considering they would be riding on the train, the necklace seemed more convenient for her.
Do you think they will both remember that cab driver? Of course they will. He will become an important story they pass down when reminiscing about their honeymoon. Not only did he surprise them with his kindness and the lovely flowers, but he took into consideration their situation and purchased the gift to cause them the least amount of trouble as they continued on their trip.
What does your company do to make yourself memorable in the minds of your customers?
Hopefully you have considered ways that your firm might come to mind when customers are looking for products or services you provide. These ideas need to be incorporated into both your strategy and your corporate culture. This is an important part of your brand — showing that you are different, that you are exceptional, and that you value the needs of your customers.
Do something totally unexpected, above and beyond normal, and very positive in nature. Don’t just do what everyone else does. Go a step or two beyond so you will be memorable and stand out from the crowd. Improve your customer experiences. Start making yourself memorable today.
How can you make yourself memorable for customers? Please share your strategies for standing out in the Comments section below.
Terri L Maurer, owner of Maurer Consulting Group, brings extensive business education and experience in the interior design and furnishings industry to help small businesses get on track, strategically focused in the direction for success.
