This idea can be difficult to digest, because he always made us think that the customer comes first.
And certainly we should give the best possible service to our customers. We must do the best for them. Our best work. But ... as a freelance business comes first.
The first concern for any company is its own survival and growth. The quality of customer service can be a business strategy, but not the main objective.
For example, Swissair has a reputation for excellence in customer service. But as a company they do not put the client first. The company and its profits and stability are paramount. Be the first in making customer service is simply a way to achieve those goals.
As independent professionals we need to have the same approach. Do great work is one element among many, all of which together lead to the growth and success of our ventures. Too many independent entrepreneurs spend too much time serving their customers, neglecting other important aspects of the business.
the time a company has more than one employee, it is clear that business success depends on many things, not just customer service. When you have employees going to invest time in making more precise objectives. You'll have to think of POPs as cash flow, revenue, profitability and business opportunities to be seized.
But most freelancers work alone, and when you work alone spends too much time meeting the needs of its customers and does not invest any time in the health of your company.
Be careful with this. Because if you do not put your business first, there may be some problems. You can become a kind of virtual employee of your client, but profit, no way.
What a freelancer to do is act as if their staff. Think long term. Develop goals. Think strategically.
Put your business first, and you can build a future in which you will have the control.
