Of course your clients want excellent services and products, but chances are they can get similar offerings elsewhere. So, you have to find a way to separate yourself, and one way to do it is on a personal level, according to the Inc.com article “The 5 Traits That Customers Value.” Work on accentuating these characteristics in your business to attract and keep new customers:

1.    Professionalism. People want to do business with a company that is serious about what they do.

2.    Integrity. If you’re not true to your word (or advertisements), you might as well kiss that client goodbye. This trait is also important in a broader context – stand up for what you believe in as a company and customers will appreciate it.

3.    Empathy. Particularly in the service industry, showing that you truly care about the customer is vital. Start by making sure your people are taking the time to listen to and converse with clients.

4.    Knowledge. Being able to offer valuable and honest advice about your products and services can be a huge differentiating factor. Earning the client’s trust is imperative.

5.    Creativity. Discerning clients expect more then industry expertise. They expect you to be able to solve their problems. Even if the subject is not something that falls into your basic job description, being able to suggest creative solutions is one of the best ways to earn trust and loyalty.

Click here to read the article from Inc.com.