It may seem like a silly question, do you have customers or clients? Most think they are the same but are they? Lets take a look at their definitions…
From Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
Client
- : one that is under the protection of another :dependent
- a: a person who engages the professional advice or services of another <a lawyer’s clients>
b:customer <hotel clients>
c: a person served by or utilizing the services of a social agency <a welfare client>
Customer
- : one that purchases a commodity or service
- : an individual usually having some specified distinctive trait<a real tough customer>
A client is someone seeking advice, needs your expert opinion on how to solve problems. He puts himself under your care. It’s a relationship will evolve over time. A customer is looking to buy doesn’t ask your advice and happy to leave empty handed
As business people, we want to turn customers in to clients. This is where social networking comes in. A lot is said about ‘brand building’ and ‘creating trust’. However, social networks can also be the place where we turn customers in to clients and create long lasting relationships with them.
