I’m in PR. I cater to people every day. I call or e-mail clients and journalists based on their personal preference, print out documents for those who like hard copies and use Twitter and Facebook to enhance my relationships. When I’m finally the client, the one to be catered to, is it too much to ask for people to communicate with me the way I prefer?

I recently e-mailed my personal banker with a question about one of my accounts. The response? A voicemail on my cell phone. I hate voicemail. I didn’t send my banker an e-mail because I wanted to talk on the phone. Weeks have gone by. I still haven’t called, and let’s just say his follow-up has been less than stellar. Meanwhile my questions are unanswered, and I am left with a less than perfect impression of my somewhat new bank.

There are a lot of different ways to communicate, and we all have our preferences. However, when you’re dealing with clients and other business professionals it’s important to take the time to cater your communication style to them.

A good rule of thumb: respond using the same communication method they used.

So if you’re wondering why I haven’t returned your voicemail, try sending an e-mail.

Newer Posts Older Posts Home