Kiss Your Clients
I don’t mean KISS your clients, I mean K.I.S.S. your clients.
When I was growing up, my band director was always telling us to K.I.S.S. a difficult passage in the music or a challenging sequence in our marching program. It was very annoying but ultimately great advice, and I have carried it with me throughout life.
Many of you know what K.I.S.S. means, but just in case you need a reminder, it stands for Keep It Simple, Stupid (or Silly, if you prefer a kinder version).
So, what am I talking about when I say you should K.I.S.S. your clients?
Let’s discuss…
Applying K.I.S.S. to Dog Training
In dog training, we often tell our clients to keep it simple when teaching their dogs new commands or behaviors. Overcomplicated instructions can confuse the dog and frustrate the owner. The same principle applies to client interactions. Simplify your communication and processes to make the experience smoother and more pleasant for your clients.
Example: Teaching the “Sit” Command
When teaching a dog to sit, we break it down into simple, clear steps:
Hold a treat close to the dog's nose.
Move your hand up, allowing the dog’s head to follow the treat and causing its bottom to lower.
Once the dog is in a sitting position, say "Sit," give the treat, and share affection.
Notice how each step is straightforward and easy to follow. Similarly, when interacting with clients, break down the information and instructions into simple, digestible parts. This makes it easier for them to understand and comply.
Clear Communication: The Key to Successful Dog Training and Client Relationships
Just as dogs need clear, consistent commands to understand and learn new behaviors, clients need clear, consistent communication to feel confident and informed. Keep your client care and service simple, and always apply the Golden Rule: ‘Do Unto Others As You Would Have Them Do Unto You.’ This principle is not just about being nice; it’s about creating an environment where trust and understanding can flourish.
Communicate proactively and proudly. Let your clients know what to expect at each stage of their dog's training journey. Whether it's the initial assessment, the training sessions, or follow-up evaluations, providing clear and timely updates helps to set expectations and reduce anxiety. Encourage your team members to communicate confidently and consistently. When clients are well-informed, they are less likely to feel frustrated or confused, and they are more likely to appreciate and value your services.
Practical Tips for Clear Communication in Dog Training
Initial Consultation: During the first meeting, explain the training process thoroughly. Outline the steps you will take, the goals you aim to achieve, and the timeline for progress. This helps set clear expectations from the start.
Regular Updates: Keep clients informed about their dog’s progress. Regular updates, whether through emails, phone calls, or in-person meetings, help clients feel involved and reassured.
Clear Instructions: Provide clients with easy-to-understand instructions for at-home practice. Written instructions or video demonstrations can be very helpful.
Address Concerns Promptly: If a client has a concern or question, address it as soon as possible. Prompt responses show that you value their input and are committed to their satisfaction.
Follow-Up: After the training program is completed, follow up with clients to see how they and their dog are doing. Offer additional support if needed, and show that you care about the long-term success of their training efforts.
Empathy in Dog Training
Just as we remind dog owners to be patient and kind with their dogs, using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior, we should extend this same empathy to our clients. Clients face their own challenges and stressors, and by treating them with kindness and understanding, we can foster a positive relationship that benefits both parties. When clients feel supported and understood, they are more likely to be patient and cooperative, making the training process smoother and more effective.
Closing Thoughts
Clear communication and empathy are crucial components of successful dog training and client relationships. By keeping your client care and service simple (K.I.S.S.) and applying the Golden Rule—‘Do Unto Others As You Would Have Them Do Unto You’—you can create a more positive and productive environment for both clients and their dogs.
If you would like to learn more about me or Dog Days Consulting, please send us a message below, and we will reach out to you. We don’t use strong-arm sales tactics or sell your information. Instead, we focus on building genuine relationships and providing valuable support to help you succeed in your dog training endeavors.