When you are running late what do you do?
I frequently have my first meeting with client or customer at my office.
The other day I had an appointment at my office with another agent and his client. The appointment was set for a Sunday to accommodate their schedule. The appointment was for 11am. At 9am I exchanged text messages with the other agent to confirm our appointment.
With the appointment confirmed I head for the office a little early to prepare the paper work we would need. I have everything ready by 10:45 and decide I have time to make myself a cup of coffee before my guests arrive.
The lobby is locked on weekends so I was waiting for their call so I could go to the lobby and let them in. It's now 11:10 and no call. 11:15 and still no call. I start thinking about all the things I would rather be doing on this Sunday morning. Finally at 11:20 they call and I go to the lobby to greet them.
With no attempt to explain their tardiness we exchange pleasantries and finished our business.
In this case a simple sorry I'm a little late and I hope it didn't inconvenience you would have been very much appreciated.
So here are my 4 personal rules for what to do when running late.
- Do everything you can to not be late. Traffic is bad everyday, plan ahead.
- If you are even one minute late offer a word of apology. It will be appreciated.
- If you are going to be more than 10 minutes late call.
- Never make someone think you take their time for granted.
A wise man said they may not remember what you say but they will remember how you make them feel.
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