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Writer's pictureJoseph Haecker

The Power of Picking Up the Phone: A Tale of Missed Opportunities and Simple Solutions

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In the world of interior design, real estate, and home staging, the art of communication is vital. The simple act of picking up your phone can be a game-changer for your business, as I discovered back in 2020 when I decided to google the top 20 interior designers in the Annandale VA area. The experience left me both surprised and disappointed, as it highlighted a crucial issue in the industry that can make or break a business's success – the importance of promptly answering client calls.


Hey there! This is Joseph Haecker! And today, I share a personal experience with you to shed light on the simple updates you can implement to make it easier for clients to contact you and seize opportunities that might otherwise slip through the cracks.

The Call That Went Unanswered:

At the beginning of the COVID lockdowns, when interior designers were claiming they had limited work, I decided to reach out to the top 20 interior design firms in my area to inquire about their unique design services. I dialed each number one by one, eager to see how many actually picked up the phone, and to find out just how busy they actually were.


Can you guess how many of them answered to phone?


Or here's a question...


How many of the numbers were actually still even in service?


The Shocking Results:

Out of the 20 top interior design firms that I called that day, the total number of designers that picked up the phone was an amazing, ZERO!


Not even ONE design firm took the time to answer their phone. The simple act of answering the phone.


They couldn't even do that.


Even worse, 5 of the phone numbers were "no longer in service,"! Making it clear that they had missed opportunities due to outdated contact information.


This experience highlighted the significant impact that not answering calls or having incorrect contact details can have on a business, especially during challenging times!


Simple Updates for Client Accessibility:

In a world where clients seek quick and efficient service, being readily available and easily reachable can set you apart from the competition. Here are some simple updates that can make it easier for clients to contact you:

  1. Responsive Phone System: Utilize a modern and efficient phone system that automatically forwards calls to available team members, ensuring that no opportunity goes unnoticed.

  2. Missed Call Message: Set up a professional voicemail greeting that assures clients their message has been received and will be promptly attended to. This instills confidence and keeps potential clients engaged.

  3. Online Contact Forms: Incorporate contact forms on your website to offer an alternative means of communication. Make sure to respond to inquiries received through these forms promptly.

  4. Social Media Messaging: Leverage social media platforms to interact with clients and prospects. Respond to direct messages and comments promptly to showcase your commitment to excellent customer service.


Automated Phone Answering Systems:

Streamline your communication process by using automated phone answering systems like Grasshopper. These systems can handle call routing, voicemail, and other features that enhance customer experience.

In the Business, No Detail is Too Small:

While businesses often prioritize the big-picture strategies, it's important not to overlook the little details. Promptly picking up the phone and ensuring smooth communication channels can lead to significant opportunities and create a positive impression on potential clients. Remember, the success of your business lies in the simple acts that build trust, credibility, and long-lasting relationships.

Final Thoughts:

As an interior designer, realtor, or home stager, your accessibility to clients can make or break your business. My experience reaching out to the top interior design firms in Annandale VA shed light on the power of promptly picking up the phone and the negative impact of missed opportunities. By implementing simple updates and embracing modern communication tools, you can enhance client accessibility and elevate your business to new heights.


So, let's not forget the importance of the small details and ensure that we are always there for our clients, even if it starts with the simple act of answering a phone call.


 

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