Our law firm works hard to keep construction contractors well-informed of the various steps they can take to mitigate the numerous legal risks inherent in the construction process. On this blog we often write about the contracts and other types of documentation you should use as well as the various potential mistakes and pitfalls you must work to avoid. However, there is one key risk management element that far too many construction contractors overlook. It is one that does not get talked about enough, and it is perhaps the simplest measure of all: good customer service.
The fact of the matter is, reasonable people do not seek to sue people whom they like. Of course, there are many unreasonable people in the world, and there is nothing you can do to 100% guarantee you will not get sued, but working hard to keep your customers happy is a great place to start.
Below are five easy things every construction contractor can and should do to improve their customer service, improve their customer morale, and help minimize the risk of litigation by an angry and vindictive client.
Listen – Take the time to truly listen to the wishes and needs of your customers. Hear what they have to say and never assume. If your customer is unhappy, most of them will tell you so, giving you the chance to remedy problems before they get out of control.
Understand – Not only do you need to listen to your customer, but you should try to understand where they are coming from. You may recognize that their request is unreasonable, but that does not mean they do. Take the time to ensure that all communication between you and the customer is clear and that everyone involved truly understands what was said.
Be Responsive – Make yourself available to the client. Give them your personal number if possible, and be sure to respond in a timely fashion when they contact you. Few things frustrate a customer more than an ability to communicate or get in touch with their contractor.
Be Friendly – A little kindness goes a long way. Make an effort to get to know the clients as people. Be polite and friendly. As we mentioned before, the simple truth is that if they like you they will be far less likely to sue you.
Try to Accommodate – Do your best to give your clients what they ask for. It can be frustrating when a customer tries to change things at the last minute or makes difficult requests, but when you go above and beyond to make their vision a reality, you are also insulating yourself and your business from potential legal issues brought on by a dissatisfied customer.
For all of your construction and real estate-related legal needs and more, contact the Florida Construction Law Group today.
