Next up on my Creating an Elevated Environment series is: Be Transparent!
I am continuing this series that focuses on hospitality and ways to incorporate it into your business for success. I’ve learned so many lessons working in the hospitality and food industry over the years that really stuck with me. The next lesson I have is: Being Transparent. Whether it’s Table & Thyme or Mealfit, maintaining a level of transparency ALWAYS is key for me.
People talk about transparency in the workforce all the time, but do they really live it? Holding yourself to a high standard of authenticity, especially as a business owner, can be harder than it sounds.
Being transparent is a critical component of leadership, and here’s a few ways to stick with it through your words and actions.
Never LIE.
This seems obvious, but it’s a slippery slope for some when they get zoned in on a sale. Focus on the contact as a human being and the relationship you can form with them, not the money. You want to create long-term, mutually beneficial relationships. Relationships like these, the ones that last, can stand on nothing but the truth.
Tell them the price, and don’t hide fees.
Everyone hates a hidden fee or surprise cost on the back end of a deal. Being upfront about pricing is always best practice. If someone is deterred by your price up front, it’s better for them to make that decision then and there rather than later on down the road. This mindset fosters customer loyalty and retention!
Tell them the possible bumps, then tell them what you are doing to prevent it!
Inform them of problems that can occur before they happen. Before they start to question you, jump right into how you would stop those from happening! Being proactive in tackling issues is the best preparation for any possible curve balls thrown your way.
Talk about the positive more than the negative.
This can be tricky. You want to be clear and honest, but don’t bog them down with negatives. Show them how you can benefit them by making their life easier. Center conversations around them, not yourself. Being transparent in business doesn’t mean you can’t brag on what amazing things you bring to the table!
Never promise something you cannot deliver just to get the sale.
Transparency=Trust! False hopes are the quickest way to lose someone’s trust. Understand what you can and cannot promise before you go into a deal. Gain their respect with clear deliverables and realistic expectations.
I would love to answer any questions you may have.
You can email me at thomas@thomascox.co or send us a message through a contact form.
Make sure to stay connected with me on social media: Instagram, Facebook
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