I want to share Four reflections that have been crucial in my professional journey from the base of service to teams and customers. I maintain the importance of service to the team and clients as something fundamental to develop a career that is not only your livelihood, but also allows you to grow, prosper and even transcend. This approach not only generates a positive work environment, but also strengthens relationships and improves efficiency in the company. In my own experience, first from the Human Resources department (People, or whatever you want to call it) and, for more than 7 years, as an entrepreneur, I have discovered the transformative power of prioritizing people. Inspired by my training in non-directive Professional Coaching at the UAM and above all, the teachings of Dr. Leonardo Ravier, as well as by the creation of my companies Idreal, Yugrow and recently, Proportione.
The importance of service to the team and customers
The technological paradigm shift and its impact
"In short, society is immersed in a technological paradigm shift that everything indicates will profoundly affect the labor market, the sectoral structure of the economy and the way companies operate. Making the right decisions and preparing for these changes will be imperative to seize all your opportunities. We must not lose sight of the fact that technology is a tool, but that we will continue to make decisions: the key is not to ask ourselves what technology will do to us in the future, but what we can do with technology." I extracted this paragraph in 2018 from D's article. Javier García-Arenas, from the Department of Macroeconomics, Strategic Planning and Studies Area, CaixaBank . It stuck with me.
This technological paradigm shift highlights the importance of adaptability and informed decision-making. In an environment where technology redefines the rules of the game, Interpersonal skills and customer service take on even greater value . Preparing for these changes involves developing competencies that go beyond technical skills, also focusing on empathy, effective communication, and leadership skills. That's why I bet on strategy, technology and people at Proportione. It's the equation.
Building knowledge and goals together with the client
"It helps to think and build knowledge for the client himself to achieve the goals he sets from what interests him deeply" — Based on significant learning by David Ausubel
The focus on helping clients build their own knowledge is essential to effective service. This process involves deeply understanding your needs and goals, and working together to find solutions that resonate with your deepest interests. Doing so not only strengthens customer relationships, but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that benefits both parties.
Self-knowledge and reflection to increase potential
"It is about applying techniques of self-knowledge and reflection to increase the potential and reduce interference and achieve the objective we set ourselves" — The Inner Game, Timothy Gallwey
Self-knowledge and reflection techniques are powerful tools to maximize both personal and professional potential. In the context of serving a team and customers, these techniques help to identify and overcome internal obstacles, allowing for more effective performance aligned with established objectives. By fostering an environment of self-reflection, continuous growth and constant improvement are promoted.
Wisdom in neural connections
"The substratum of wisdom is found in biology, in the type of neural connections" — Álvaro Pascual-Leone
Science shows us that our learning and adaptive abilities are deeply rooted in our neural connections. Understanding this biological basis can inspire us to develop practices that strengthen these connections, such as continuous training, deliberate practice, and cultivating a stimulating environment. In a business context, this translates into the creation of professional development programs that benefit both the team and the clients.
Benefits of a focus on team and customer service
Improved team morale and motivation
For me, the morale and motivation of "the troop" is very important, because I know for a fact that this has an impact on the morale and motivation of the customer and as a direct/indirect effect on the company. When team well-being is prioritized, it creates a positive work environment that fosters motivation and high morale. Employees who feel valued and supported are more engaged and productive, which in turn benefits the company as a whole.
Strengthening customer relationships
A customer-centric approach strengthens relationships and builds lasting loyalty. We don't have customers: we have people we serve and in providing service with professionalism, honesty and clarity, we forge long-term relationships. By understanding and responding to customers' needs effectively, you create a positive experience that keeps them close and recommending the company's services to others.
Fostering an environment of innovation
A motivated team and satisfied customers are the perfect recipe for innovation. When employees feel supported and customers are satisfied, an environment conducive to creativity and innovation is created, which can lead to new ideas and continuous improvements in the services and products offered.
Implementing an Effective Service Approach
Active listening and open communication
How much I learned in my role as a professional coach and in his praxis! Active listening is essential to understand the needs and concerns of both the team and the customers. Encouraging open and honest communication helps to solve problems more effectively and build stronger relationships to achieve shared goals.
Continuing education and professional development
Investing in the continuous training and professional development of the team (including oneself) ensures that we are up to date with the latest trends and technologies. This not only improves your/their skills, but also makes you feel valued and appreciated.
Cultivating a Positive Work Environment
Creating a positive work environment where both team and customers feel comfortable (I claim that comfort zone as a necessary vital balance) and valued is crucial for productivity and job satisfaction. This can include everything from benefits and recognition to activities to do together, also with clients, (a breakfast, a meal, a "sarao") and a culture of mutual support.
Customer Experience Personalization
Every customer is unique, and personalizing their experience can make a big difference in their satisfaction. This may involve adapting to their preferences, not packaging, keeping up with them to offer tailor-made solutions and demonstrating a true understanding of their needs and wants, from themselves. Hence the importance of listening, rather than talking, because that shows the importance of service to the team and customers.
Therefore...
Service to the team and customers is not only essential for business success, but it is also essential for personal and professional development. By prioritizing people, creating a positive work environment, and tailoring strategies to individual needs, you can build a career that is not only a livelihood, but also fosters growth, long-term satisfaction, and even transcendence.
If you want us to help you make this approach to customer and team service a reality, and help you grow your business and company , Do not hesitate to Contact us or take a look at Our Page and networks to have tips to help you on that path.