10 Ways to Exceed Your Client’s Expectations Every Time

In the highly competitive fields of Internet Marketing and Web Development, delivering exceptional customer service and communication is paramount. These areas often emerge as the weakest links in many service providers’ offerings. However, by mastering the art of exceeding expectations, you can set yourself apart from the competition.

The following tips emphasize the strategy of “under-promising and over-delivering”—a proven method for delighting clients and fostering long-term relationships.

1. Manage Expectations on Initial Search Engine Placement

When discussing search engine optimization (SEO) with clients, it’s essential to manage their expectations from the outset. Avoid making grand promises about immediate top-10 search rankings or a flood of website visitors. Instead, be realistic and set achievable goals. For instance, I tell my clients to expect placement within the top 30 search results initially, with the understanding that improvements will come over time, typically within 3 to 6 months.

This approach builds credibility. Clients are often inundated with exaggerated claims, so your honesty and realism will stand out. When you consistently deliver results that exceed these modest initial expectations, you not only surprise your clients but also solidify their trust in your expertise.

2. Dispel Common Misconceptions

In the web development world, clients often have misconceptions—one of the most common being the importance of “hits” to their website. Many clients mistakenly believe that a high number of hits equates to success. However, hits merely represent server actions, not actual visitors.

By educating clients on the difference between hits and meaningful metrics like user sessions, you position yourself as a knowledgeable professional who values transparency. This sets you apart from competitors who may rely on outdated or misleading metrics. Educating your clients on these nuances fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of your work.

3. Teach the Realities of Initial Indexing Time

Another key expectation to manage is the time it takes for search engines to index a new website. Instead of promising immediate traffic, prepare your clients for a waiting period. I typically set the expectation that it may take 6 to 8 weeks before search engines begin to drive traffic to their site.

This approach allows you to exceed expectations when some search engines begin indexing earlier, often within 3 to 5 weeks. By setting a realistic timeline and then delivering ahead of schedule, you reinforce your reliability and the value of your services.

4. Rethink Mass Search Engine Registration

The promise of registering a client’s website with hundreds of search engines is a common selling point, but it’s often misleading. Automated submissions to numerous search engines might sound impressive, but in reality, it’s the major search engines that drive the bulk of web traffic.

I take a different approach by explaining to clients why mass registration is of little value and focus instead on optimizing their site for major search engines like Google and Bing. This shift from quantity to quality not only educates your clients but also demonstrates your commitment to effective, results-driven strategies.

5. Advocate for Manual Search Engine Registration

If you use automated submission tools, ensure they operate in a non-spam manner. However, whenever possible, advocate for manual search engine registration. This personalized approach may be more time-consuming, but it offers greater control over how a site is indexed and ranked.

Manual registration allows you to tailor submissions, ensuring that each listing aligns with the client’s SEO strategy. This extra effort underscores your dedication to quality and precision, further differentiating your service from competitors.

6. Educate Clients About the Risks of FFA Links

Free For All (FFA) links are often marketed as a quick way to gain exposure, but they can do more harm than good. These links frequently lead to spam and offer little to no SEO value. I make it a point to educate my clients on the risks associated with FFA links, steering them away from these dubious practices.

By protecting your clients from potential pitfalls, you demonstrate a commitment to their long-term success. This proactive approach not only saves your clients from potential headaches but also builds trust in your judgment.

7. Build Long-Term Relationships Through Education

One of the most effective ways to exceed client expectations is by fostering long-term relationships. I see my role not just as a service provider but as a consultant who teaches clients about the intricacies of internet marketing.

By sharing knowledge and insights, you position yourself as an indispensable resource. Over time, clients will turn to you for advice on a wide range of issues, deepening your professional relationship and ensuring their loyalty.

8. Offer Value-Added Services

Going beyond your core services can significantly enhance client satisfaction. Look for opportunities to provide additional value, such as helping clients craft a media release or creating promotional materials like countertop signs for their business.

These small gestures show that you’re invested in your client’s success beyond the scope of your contract. Offering value-added services not only sets you apart from competitors but also strengthens your client’s trust in your ability to deliver comprehensive solutions.

9. Practice Customer Service Excellence

In an industry where customer service often falls short, excelling in this area can be a game-changer. Always be prompt in returning calls, answering questions, and keeping clients informed about new trends or developments that could impact their business.

By consistently providing top-notch customer service, you reassure clients that their business is in good hands. This dedication to service excellence can turn satisfied clients into loyal advocates who are eager to refer your services to others.

10. Treat Every Client as a Customer for Life

Finally, approach every client relationship with a long-term perspective. Treat their business as if it were your own, with full attention to detail and a genuine interest in their success. Remember, your clients hired you because they trust you to manage their web presence—a critical aspect of their business.

By delivering excellence in both customer service and communication, you create a solid foundation for a lasting partnership. Clients who feel valued and well-supported are more likely to stick with you through the ups and downs of the business world, ensuring your mutual success for years to come.

Conclusion

Exceeding client expectations is about more than just delivering results; it’s about building trust, offering value, and cultivating long-term relationships.

By adopting the principles of under-promising and over-delivering, and by focusing on education, transparency, and exceptional customer service, you can consistently surpass client expectations and establish yourself as a leader in the Internet Marketing and Web Development industry.

You may also like: