WIN WITH LOVE IN THE MARKETPLACE

Being customer-centric translates to loving your customers, treating them with the empathy and regard you would appreciate being shown, or indeed, as they wish to be treated. This involves a thorough analysis of customer journey maps and the design of systems, products, and processes informed by their feedback. At D&I Consulting, we uphold the belief that outcomes are more heavily influenced by our actions than by external circumstances. It is a recurring observation that businesses experiencing stagnation or decline often exhibit a prolonged neglect of customer-centric practices, leading to challenges in attracting repeat and new business.

FAST FOOD CHAINS: TIME TO LEAD THE SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT AGENDA

The recent announcement by Lagos State’s Commissioner for Environment, banning Styrofoam boxes and single-use plastics with immediate effect, caught many by surprise, especially those in the informal sector. However, for entities in the formal sector like fast food chains and supermarkets, this should have been an anticipated development. These businesses had a prime opportunity to spearhead the sustainability agenda, but instead, they found themselves reacting to the state government’s decision.

HOW’S YOUR MARKETING? A CRITICAL REVIEW FOR 2024 

The Risk of Complacency: If you find yourself uncertain about whether you are meeting customer needs, it is likely that your customers are sticking around due to factors like high switching costs, lack of alternatives, or mere convenience of location. This is a precarious position to be in, as it leaves your business vulnerable to any new competition that might offer more attention to detail. 

CRAFTING AUTHENTIC NARRATIVES: In 2024, ORGANISATIONS MUST OWN THEIR STORYTELLING 

The Risk of Outsourced Storytelling: Historically, many organisations have relied on third parties, industry experts, influencers, and freelancers to tell their stories. While these entities can offer valuable perspectives, give organisations reach and grow awareness, they can never match the depth of understanding and passion an organisation holds for its own product. This gap in authenticity becomes even more pronounced considering these third parties might also represent competing brands. Consequently, the narrative can become diluted, or worse, misaligned with the organisation’s core values and vision. 

STARTING 2024 WITH A POSITIVE AND DETERMINED MINDSET 

Expressing Gratitude: Regardless of your current circumstances, whether they are challenging, mundane, or exceptional, showing gratitude is key. Be thankful to everyone who plays a part in your life, from God to family, friends, clients, and associates. Appreciating those who choose your services or products over others is not just polite but essential in building lasting relationships. Recognising your worth does not preclude you from expressing gratitude. 

Season’s Greetings and a Heartfelt Thank You

this Christmas, I extend my heartfelt thanks to you for consistently reading my articles, for your constructive feedback, and for your kind words. I am profoundly grateful for your support. May the joy, peace, and love that epitomise this season resonate in your lives and in the lives of your loved ones.