In this unit, we delve into the art of delivering on commitments with precision and intention. This involves not only meeting deadlines but also ensuring that your communication is clear and proactive. By mastering these skills, you will enhance your ability to build trust and maintain strong relationships with your customers. Delivering on time and with intention requires a strategic approach to managing your tasks and interactions. It involves setting realistic deadlines, prioritizing tasks effectively, and being mindful of the impact your actions have on others. By doing so, you demonstrate respect for your customers' time and needs, which is fundamental in fostering a positive and productive relationship.

Following through on commitments, even seemingly "small" ones, is crucial for building trust. When you promise to do something, make sure you deliver on it. This could be as simple as sending a follow-up email or providing an update on a project. If you commit to a deadline, ensure you meet it. For example, if you tell a customer, "I'll send you the report by Tuesday," make sure it arrives on time. Consistency in small actions reinforces reliability and trustworthiness. It's important to remember that every commitment, no matter how minor it may seem, contributes to your overall reputation. By consistently following through, you establish a pattern of dependability that customers can rely on.

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, progress may slow down. In such cases, it's important to over-communicate with your customers. Keep them informed about any delays and the reasons behind them. For instance, you might say, "We encountered an unexpected issue, but we're working on it and will update you by the end of the day." This transparency helps manage expectations and shows that you are actively working on the issue. Over-communicating doesn't mean overwhelming your customers with unnecessary details, but rather providing them with timely and relevant updates that keep them informed and reassured.

Let's look at a dialogue between two colleagues to see these skills in action.

• Jake: Hi Chris, I wanted to update you on the project status. We hit a small snag, but we're addressing it and should have everything back on track by tomorrow.
• Chris: Thanks for letting me know, Jake. I appreciate the update. Will you be able to meet the original deadline?
• Jake: Yes, absolutely. I'll make sure to keep you posted if anything changes. Once the task is complete, I'll send you a confirmation.
• Chris: Great, thanks for keeping me in the loop. It really helps to know what's going on.

In this dialogue, Jake effectively communicates a delay, reassures Chris about the timeline, and promises to confirm completion. This approach ensures clarity and builds trust.

By focusing on these key areas, you will be better equipped to deliver on time and with intention, ultimately strengthening your customer relationships. In the upcoming role-play session, you'll have the chance to practice these concepts in a realistic scenario.