I can’t tell you how often I hear other photographers say how much they hate answering their phones. Some wont even call potential clients back!
To me, this is more than just leaving money on the table – it’s also kinda rude.
But look, I get it, I do. In this fast-paced world of ours we’ve all got hectic schedules, we’re addicted to our phones (for social media, not talking) and everyone wants a piece of us.
And if you’re not an overly extroverted type of person then talking on the phone can be even more painful.
I’m certainly no introvert, but there are still days I really would just rather shut myself away and not talk to anyone for a few hours.
But not calling people back, especially if they’re potentially going to spend their hard earned money with me, well in my book, that’s just bad business.
If given the choice between following up with an email or a phone call, 9 times out of 10, most people will choose the easy way out and send an email.
Why? Because it’s safe, that’s why!
We don’t have to answer any hairy questions or think on the spot or put ourselves ‘out there’. Given the choice we often stay in our comfort zone, safely behind our computer screens.
But here’s one thing I know for sure – success is just on the other side of your fear.
Ok, so I may or may not have taken that from a Facebook meme somewhere, I wont confirm. But it’s so true.
If we don’t answer the phone or call someone back because it makes us feel uncomfortable then we’re only disadvantaging ourselves, and our business.
If we do nothing to convince potential clients to book with us, and spend their hard earned money at our studio, they’ll simply choose another photographer.
It’s no skin off their nose, but for us it could mean the difference between keeping the studio open for just a little longer, or having to close the doors and go back to the dreaded 9-5-cubicle job.
Even if you are the best photographer for what they need, it’ll be impossible for them to know if all they get from you is a generic email with vague information about your services.
Think about it this way…
…a potential client is looking for a photographer. They Google their options, visit those sites, then contact five photographers that all look pretty reasonable.
I guarantee that out of those five, at least four will email back, or worse – text back!
It only takes two minutes to pick up the phone and call someone back, but it can make all the difference and sets you apart from the rest.
Every single time I call a potential client back their first response is always “Thank you“.
Say whaaat? “Thank you??” – that’s what I should be saying to them!
People thank me because I took the time to personally reach out to them instead of sending an email like everyone else (some don’t even do that!)
If you really want to set yourself apart in a sea of sameness, then you need to beef up your customer service game.
Remember, we buy from those we know, like and trust. The fastest way to build that trust is to give them personal attention and treat them with respect.
If you aren’t booking inquiries, have a think about how you are (or aren’t) responding to them.
Next time a potential customer calls you, try calling them back and giving them a taste of amazing customer service.
Trust me, you WILL see a difference.