Business Practices

Why Customers Care About Reservations

When customers make reservations, they fully expect to get what they are requesting. When you combine a reservation with a deposit, or up-front charge, expectations are even higher.

On a recent business trip to Las Vegas, I stayed at Harrah’s on the famous Las Vegas Strip. I had made my reservation well in advance, requested a non-smoking room, and was even charged for the first night.

When I arrived my first evening, I was told no non-smoking rooms were available. What? They knew I was coming, I had paid for the room that already, and there wasn’t a room? Since I was recovering from a cold and have allergies, the smoky room didn’t do me much good that first night.

Fortunately, I was able to switch rooms the next day. However, this was a big inconvenience as I had to run back from my conference at lunch and move all my stuff to the new room.

Deliver on Reservations and Expectations

Customers make reservations at hotels, restaurants, and even when they place orders with your business. Orders are essentially making reservations of products in your inventory. If you tell a customer that their reservation is confirmed, you must be sure to deliver on that promise.

People’s expectations are naturally higher when they feel something should be ready for them. This is your moment to shine and deliver what you promised and make a great first impression on your customers.

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2 Comments »

  1. Demetrius Pinder

    January 15, 2008

    nice to see you return to writing!

    i always try my best to keep my appointments with customers. it creates trust and helps with the reputation. especially since a big part of my business is home computer repair, my reputation is worth its weight in gold.

  2. Joe Rawlinson

    January 16, 2008

    Demetrius,

    Thanks for mentioning appointments and their impact on reputation. Especially in a service business like yours, keeping appointments can make or break a customer relationship.

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