The problem today is that most developers and end-users have difficulty interacting with Web3 technology. It needs to be more aligned with Web2 usability, which is exactly what the Venly platform provides. With Index.dev, we’ve been able to double the size of our engineering team making the Venly NFT marketplace the easiest and most reliable solution for the end-users and businesses out there. - Tim Dierckxsens, CEO of Venly
In the competitive world of software development, establishing strong relationships with customers is vital for long-term success. As an Account Manager at Index.dev, I recognize the importance of going the extra mile to remain top of mind with our clients. In this article, I will share five valuable tips on how to foster lasting connections with your customers:
Also read: What contract work is and how does Index.dev handles it?
1. Give first, always
The key to winning customer loyalty lies in the principle of giving first without any expectation of immediate returns. Building a lasting relationship with clients starts with providing exceptional service and value. According to a survey by HubSpot, 93% of customers are more likely to become repeat customers if they receive excellent customer service.
Rather than solely focusing on transactions, take the initiative to understand your customers' needs, challenges, and objectives. Offer them valuable insights and guidance, even if it means going beyond the scope of your agreement. By showcasing your dedication to their success, you will earn their trust and loyalty.
2. Constant communication
Maintaining consistent communication is essential for staying at the forefront of your customers' minds. Regularly touch base with them through various channels such as emails, phone calls, or video conferences to discuss ongoing projects, updates, and any potential challenges. According to a survey by Microsoft, 73% of customers expect companies to understand their needs and expectations.
Index.dev nuanced understanding of Omio’s hiring needs, fluid communication during the assignment, and high-reliability in managing developers. I can only recommend this approach. - Tomas Vocetka, CTO at Omio
Being proactive in your communication demonstrates genuine care for your clients' business and shows your commitment to their success. Moreover, being responsive to their inquiries and concerns reinforces their confidence in your team's abilities.
Join unicorns, startups & scaleups, like Omio, Glopal, and Perforce who hired Index.dev contractors, tapping the elite 5% of vetted tech talent and saving up to $1 million annually →
3. Seeking valuable feedback
Feedback is a valuable resource for continuous growth and improvement. Develop a habit of requesting feedback from your customers after each project or milestone. Utilize surveys or follow-up calls to gather their opinions and insights. A study by ReviewTrackers revealed that 63.6% of customers are more likely to return to a business that asks for feedback.
Actively seeking feedback conveys to your clients that their opinions are important to you, and it showcases your commitment to delivering exceptional service. Take their suggestions seriously and implement changes based on their input, demonstrating your adaptability and dedication to meeting their needs.
4. Thoughtful gestures
Small gestures can leave a lasting impression on your customers. Consider sending a personalized gift or a thoughtful surprise as a token of appreciation after completing a successful project. In a study conducted by Experiencify, 68% of customers said they would refer a business to others if they had a positive experience.
A carefully chosen gift or surprise not only shows your gratitude but also strengthens your bond with the client. It adds a personal touch to your relationship, making your software development team stand out from the competition and leaving a positive and lasting memory in the minds of your customers.
Also read: 15 less-known benefits of hiring contractors globally
5. In-person meetings and referrals
Whenever possible, prioritize in-person meetings with your clients, especially if they are located in the same city or country as your team. In-person meetings create stronger connections and provide opportunities for more profound discussions about their business needs. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, face-to-face requests are 34 times more successful than email requests.
Furthermore, leverage your existing relationships to your advantage by seeking referrals from satisfied customers. Referrals are an effective way to expand your network and gain access to potential new clients. Offer incentives or discounts to encourage clients to refer your services to their industry peers, as satisfied customers are more likely to recommend your software development team to others. Building a strong referral network can lead to increased business opportunities and further solidify your reputation in the market.
Also read: Unlocking the power of referral: Aryk Grosz's story with Index.dev's Refer-a-Lead program →
Wrapping up
Building and maintaining strong relationships with your customers is the cornerstone of a successful software development team. Following these five tips, you will stay top of mind and foster long-term loyalty with your clients. By giving first, communicating consistently, seeking feedback, sending thoughtful gifts, and utilizing in-person meetings and referrals, your software development team can create a lasting impact on your customers and pave the way for future growth and success. Remember, customer loyalty is not built overnight but through consistent efforts and genuine care for your clients.