Chapter 4. Question 3
Social media has provided us with new ways to communicate. It has provided several platforms for companies to take advantage of to promote and strengthen one’s brand. With this, I do not think it is necessary to impose policies on controlling the use of social media in the workplace. Since this is a form of communication, I am sure all companies have their inclusive communication policies which aim to control inappropriate behavior. This should cover that for social media. All employees are adults, with sound minds and who knows what is right from wrong. It is time to trust your employees to do right by social media and to do right by the company.
Chapter 5. Question 3.
Despite knowing that sending unsolicited emails to customers, I think companies should not defer from sending them out. Sending e-mails ensure that the company is in contact with one’s target market. They bought from you before. There must be an underlying reason why. They must prefer your brand over another. Or they must have seen your ad somewhere and decided to check it out. Sending e-mails is a form of advertising that is most direct. It is a brand’s way of connecting with the customers even after a sale has been made. Your customers might choose to open your emails or not. Even if your emails remain unopened, it still reminds the customer of your brand’s existence and will definitely remain at the back of their minds for future transactions. It is a risk worth taking if you ask me. It is better than no connection at all. Sending these emails is like having 1 foot already in the door. It definitely increases your chance of a future sale.
Chapter 6. Question 5.
It has definitely happened to everyone when one doubts if the item he bought is the better choice and this is after hours or even days of contemplating which to buy. Cognitive dissonance is to blame. This usually happens when one’s two choices almost offer the same features, but one being more likely to satisfy your needs than the other, but the other one being a little less cheap, for example. You end up buying the cheaper one. And now you have your regrets. When faced with this situation, sales personnel should know how to remind the customer why he purchased the item in the first place. Reiterate the product’s advantages over the other and make the customer realize the value for his money in his purchase. Explain to the customer why your product is the better choice and why it would definitely live up to his expectations. You may also share testimonials of other customers who have bought the same product and were happy with it.
Chapter 7. Question 1.
Finding the right supplier for your product is never easy nowadays. You must be able to find the right mix of quality products, low cost, and reliable service. When you do find one that can provide for all three factors that would ensure a lasting relationship, you must work your hardest to keep them. You must learn to become a valued customer. To build this relationship, you must learn to pay on time. Also, make sure to communicate your lead times. Share with your supplier your expected and realistic lead as to when you would need your order. Do not rush your suppliers if you want them to keep you as their customer. Keep your relationship with them professional as well as personal. Include them in your circle of company friends, where they get invited to meetings and parties. This way your suppliers will be kept in the loop on what is going on in your company. Transparency makes them feel that they belong. These steps of relationship building with one’s suppliers can also be applied if you are now the supplier to your retailer. In a B2B transaction, one must know how to become a customer and how to become the supplier at the same time. Building lasting relationships are fairly simple. Treat your suppliers and retailers as how you would want to be treated. Ensure that all transactions are fair, communication lines are open all the time and most importantly treat everyone with respect.
