The guy that does our landscaping started doing something recently that reminds me of how critical it is to constantly be adding value...value to our employer, our customer and our relationships. Adding value is something that we all should think about relative to our professional and personal lives. Adding value means to make better, to enhance and improve.
It started 2 months ago. I came home one night and noticed that the easement looked perfectly manicured and all of the weeds were gone. Week after week more weeding was done and clearly I was not the one getting rid of them. I didn't think it was Lori but I inquired about who was responsible for the disappearing weeds. She said it was our landscape guy, that he started bringing someone with him that was doing all of the clean up. Now, I didn't ask for the additional service and to my surprise there was no additional cost on the monthly invoice.
So here are a few takeaways from our landscaper:
- Understanding market conditions: The current market conditions are tight in Riverside for most homeowners. Most homeowners are cutting back. Understanding what is happening in his market, our landscaper was able to make a wise decision that will help to keep many of his customers during a tough time.
- Being proactive: Our landscaper offered a service without it being asked for. That makes me as a customer very happy and appreciative.
- Reduced profits is better than no profits: Before I make the decision to cut back, I will think twice about all that I am getting for my money.
- Customer reference: There is no better sales tool than a great customer reference.
Whether you are in the private or public sector, you work for a corporation, a school or a small company, it is crucial that we are always looking to add more value. Our customers, boss, students, etc. all seek out those individuals that can continue to bring more to the table.
