When we think and talk about respect as it relates to our home businesses, we tend to talk about how we can command the respect of others and what we can do to grow our self-respect in order to present a calm, capable “package” to our clients and customers. But, I believe that a big part of great customer service and networking is showing others the respect that they deserve too…
We can show our customers, clients and colleagues respect by first listening to them–let them know that you are not only listening to what they say to you but that you also remember and take it into account when trying to match their needs and provide good customer service. Instead of jumping in, interrupting, and trying to tell the other person what we think they need and how we can solve all their problems, we can listen and digest and let the other person lead us to the solution.
Respect can also be shown in many ordinary ways: respect their time and answer phone calls and e-mails promptly. Don’t call during the dinner hour or first thing in the morning when you know they are likely getting settled and just getting to their desk. Give them time to answer your requests and do everything you can to help them meet deadlines (while doing everything you can to meet those deadlines as well.) Do not share information about a client, customer, vendor or colleague with someone else or use information that you have gathered through your working relationship to either harm them or try to further your own reputation.
I think you can probably see how much of showing respect boils down to common courtesy and the golden rule–treating your customers, prospects, clients, vendors, and colleagues as you would want them to treat you and your business.