How often have you been told: “I’ll be there at 3”

Then 3 o’clock rolls around and nothing…..so you call…..and nothing.

Never fails. The cable guy gets most of the bad rap for this, but let’s be honest; your local tree company is just as guilty. You will set up a time for an estimate and they won’t show. You will call and they won’t answer. You will leave a message, and they won’t call you back. When you do finally get a hold of them, DAYS LATER, they will tell you: “Sorry we have been really busy.” That’s about as legitimate as telling your teacher your dog ate your homework.

Come on!!!! Give me a Break!!!

They might tell you it’s not a big deal, its only tree removal or tree trimming appointment.

But what if the scenerio is this: you live in St. Paul, Minnesota, and the reason you are calling is in regard to Emerald Ash Borer Treatment? If this is the case then time is of the essence and you can’t afford to be jerked around. You are not just calling to get your tree trimmed but rather you are calling because you are concerned about the most dangerous pest facing our trees in the Twin Cities. With Emerald Ash Borer treatment, the sooner you get your tree treated, the better. So the sooner your tree care company calls you back the better!!!

I have a news flash for all you tree companies out there: Customers are Good for Business so Treat them that way!!!

Act like your company values its customers. There are three simple ways to achieve this.

1) Be courteous

2) Be respectful

3) Honor your commitments

It’s simple really.

• When you make an appointment, show up on time. If you can’t, call in advance and reschedule.
• If a customer calls and leaves you a message, call them back. You are never too busy to make a 2 minute phone call to acknowledge that someone is trying to give you business.
• When there is agreed time to complete the job, honor that agreement.

These simple steps will show your customer base that you value them and appreciate their business. Don’t take them for granted, there are plenty of other companies they could go to.

And remember: Good customer service is good business practice….and it’s the right thing to do.