Merry Christmas

December 25th is celebrated as a religious (by a majority of Christians) and cultural holiday by billions of people around the world. For Christians, it is marked as the day Jesus Christ was born in the town of Bethlehem. Some believe Jesus was the Son of God or a prophet or others have no belief either way. No matter what your beliefs are, take time to reflect upon the meaning of Christmas. It is a time that promotes Peace on Earth and Goodwill to all. May God bless you and your family. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

HARD SELL

When dealing with potential or existing customers, be careful with your presentation. It’s good to be positive and enthusiastic but being overly zealous or aggressive can turn a buyer off because of a hard sell presentation. Besides turning a buyer off, an overly aggressive approach might make a buyer wary. Enthusiasm is important but overdoing it makes a person cautious. It also might diminish the buyer’s trust and confidence. If a product or service isn’t right for them, suggest something else. The key is to sell products and or provide a service with the buyer’s needs and desires in mind. The goal isn’t to sell your product or service, it's to have the customer become a buyer. Therefore, knowing what the customer wants or needs should facilitate them into becoming a buyer. Show the buyer you are on their side. In the end, that will produce more sales and success and ultimately more profits. Related Articles and Information: How to Sell Carpet Protectors Sell The Sizzle Selling Commercial Carpet Maintenance Programs Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

REMEMBER PEARL HARBOR

Became the battle cry of WW II. as President Roosevelt (FDR) uttered these words, “Sunday, December 7, 1941, a day that will live in infamy.” Thus on that fateful morning, the United States was propelled into WW II by the attack that took place as our Pacific Fleet lay at anchor. According to news reports as of October 18, 2024 there are 18 known survivors. As we commemorate the 83rd anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attack, a thought comes to mind. Will “Remember Pearl Harbor,” “Remember the Maine” and “Remember the Alamo” become forgotten or irrelevant? Will 9/11 succumb to the same fate? Not because those that were there or were aware of it are gone. But because those events have been relegated to the back pages of History books or are routinely ignored by many schools as they “preach” not “teach.” Unfortunately, there has been a tremendous cost in the loss of lives in these tragic events. Thank God for our brave troops and first responders who have been involved in them. In this land of plenty and freedoms, with all of our problems, people still yearn to come to live here and enjoy freedoms and certain inalienable rights which are under attack by politicians and groups that think they know what’s good for the American people. Please remember “Freedom is not free.” Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving is truly a special day. It was first celebrated in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans shared a fall harvest. In 1863, President Lincoln proclaimed a national day of thanksgiving to be celebrated each year on the fourth Thursday of November. Thanksgiving Day is more than memories, food, football and parades. It is a day of thanks. On this day, we are reminded of the bounty of treasures that are a part of our everyday lives. We spend a few, often too brief, moments in prayer or meditation before dinner to say thanks for our family, friends and the wonderfulness of our lives. The true meaning of Thanksgiving should not end there. Ponder the two words that are involved: thanks and giving. We should therefore be reminded to give thanks and to share. Take the time to share our economic benefits, material wealth and talents with those who can use our help. Once again as you sit down to dinner, ponder the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

PROBLEM SOLVING “QUIZ”

Problem Solving is defined as the process of finding solutions to difficult or complex or even everyday issues. Therefore in business, it follows that the more problems solved the more success for the Company and theoretically there will be more profits. Problem Solving requires separating facts from fantasy. It may also require thinking on our feet. As owners or managers, we should ask ourselves these basic questions. If we encounter a previously resolved problem, are we quick to react and solve? If it’s a new problem, do we look for similarities with previously resolved problems Can we see a problem from several different angles? Do we spend too much time gathering information, therefore delaying resolution? If needed, can we break complex problems into parts and solve each part in order to resolve the issue as a whole? Are we willing to listen to our “gut” when contemplating a resolution? If we are stumped, are we willing to ask for help? Simply put, the more “yes” answers the more adept at the basics of Problem Solving. Related Articles and Information: Building Your Own Carpet Cleaning Business Four Characteristics of a Successful Person The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business Twenty Steps to Success Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

ROBOTS

Robots have definitely made life easier. They have increased production in manufacturing, warehousing, logistics and many other industries. But some say, and rightfully so, they have obviously taken the person to person relationship out of business and perhaps someday every day life. When you call most Companies today, you need to navigate a menu. The majority of the time, that takes you in a circuitous route. Maybe that route “allows” you talk to a virtual assistance which tries to help you and when finally that is deemed not possible you are transferred to a live person in a customer service position. You are immediately told that due to an abnormally large number of calls your wait time may be longer than usual, whatever usual is. Customer Service is very important in any business. Large Companies can employ Robots, whether human or artificial, and survive because most of the time we need them more than they need us. Think of the Government, Utilities, Banks, etc. However, Small Business can not because it’s obviously easier for a customer to go elsewhere. So in customer service, avoid becoming another of the Robots by employing a few simple techniques. Do not brush off a customer’s concerns or questions. Converse with customers in a friendly and sincere voice. Speak to customers as equals. Don’t speak with “scripted” replies. If customers feel they are being treated professionally and with care, they will be more apt to deal with that Company now and in the future. Related Articles and Information: Customer Service in the Carpet Cleaning Industry Phone Courtesy Telephone Etiquette in the Carpet Cleaning Business Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

VETERANS DAY

In America, we enjoy many of our freedoms because of the dedication and courage of all our Veterans. Veterans Day will be celebrated on November 11th. It is the day that we honor those Veterans. Veterans Day originated as Armistice Day and marked the end of hostilities of World War I that occurred at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The first Armistice Day was commemorated in 1919. The day was originally set aside to honor the Veterans of World War I. After World War II and the Korean War, Congress recognized a need to expand the meaning of the day and recognize ALL veterans. So in 1954, the word “Armistice” was replaced with “Veterans” as a way to include all Veterans of all American wars. Veterans Day is a federal holiday which many cities celebrate with parades and ceremonies. In Washington, D.C., the celebrations include a wreath laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Veterans Day is a day not only to honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, but also to recognize those who continue to serve today. Take this time to thank a Veteran who fulfills this patriotic duty to maintain the freedoms of our country. We can show the respect we have for them by properly honoring and displaying the American Flag. Another way that is accomplished is by always standing and placing your hand over your heart during the playing of the National Anthem. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

VOTE

November 5th is obviously election day. Besides electing a new President on this day, there will be many other elections of significant importance. Also, many of the members of Congress, Governors, Mayors, Local Representatives, etc are being elected all of whom will have an impact on us. Even local school boards influence how and what our children are taught. If you have not already done so, PLEASE exercise your right to vote. As small business owners, whoever is in charge has a tremendous effect on yours and all of our businesses. We need leadership that is Pro Small Business and fiscally responsible. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

Elizabeth Ann Bane (1916-2024)

It is with heavy hearts and sorrow that we sadly announce that Elizabeth Ann Bane passed away on October 16, 2024 after a brief illness just days short of her 98th Birthday (October 28th). Her sons were at her side each holding a hand as she quietly and with dignity departed this worldly life. She was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. While serving as a USO member during WW II, she met her future husband Marine Sargent William F. Bane. They were married April 26th, 1947. After William finished his enlistment, they moved to Indianapolis which was William’s hometown. Together with her front line work and later behind the scenes guidance, the Company morphed into Bane-Clene® Corp., a multi million dollar international company. Even after William’s passing in 2014, her involvement and passion for the business did not wane. She was a member of several philanthropic organizations including a Service Sorority. She was also a charter member of The Indianapolis Zoo. She enjoyed traveling and spending time at their condo in Treasure Island, FL. However, her true love was their home and the 5 acres of land of which a large portion of is a nature preserve for many species of animals. Her love for her furry friends and “critters” was second to her love for her family. At her passing, 20 feral cats call her land their home. Truly a matriarch in every sense of the word. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. However, they are in possession of a multitude of wonderful memories of a truly loving and proud Wife, Mother, Grandmother and Great-Grandmother. GOD BLESS HER

LEADERSHIP QUALITIES

Leadership is defined as the action of leading a group of people or an organization. There are many Leadership Qualities some of these are inherent and natural or others may be learned or self taught by oneself. Energy. This person has drive and works hard and likes it. Drive. This person is driven by goals and achievement and will do whatever it takes to make it happen and therefore be a success. Sacrifice. Drive occasionally demands that tough choices be made of themselves. A good leader willingly accepts the challenge. Likeability. It is a fine line between being liked or not liked. A good leader needs to avoid unfairly being taken advantage of while remaining in charge of those they lead. Intelligence. Being smart is important for a leader but they shouldn’t laud their intellect over those they lead. That is a recipe for failure. Integrity. Is perhaps one of the, if not, the most important of the Leadership Qualities. Simply put if a leader cannot be trusted how can they lead? “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one that does the greatest things. He or she is the one that gets the greatest things out of the people they lead.” -- Ronald Reagan Related Articles and Information: Four Characteristics of a Successful Person Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

A LESSON FROM LINCOLN

He is justifiably recognized as one of the greatest Presidents to lead our great nation. His leadership throughout the Civil War was praised and conversely ridiculed by many. Ultimately the majority of those that demeaned him came full circle. One such person that came full circle was Edwin Stanton, Secretary of War. He hurled stinging insults at the President. Lincoln overlooked his demeaning remarks, he felt that Stanton was the right person for the job and treated him courteously and respectfully. Lincoln wasn’t being weak or foolish. He simply refused to let his pride interfere with his judgment and leadership. A common trait of successful people is the ability to overlook slights when necessary. Even Lincoln’s harshest critics eventually recognized his greatness. On the night Lincoln was shot, one such person declared, “There lies the greatest ruler of men the world has ever seen.” The speaker was Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. The next time we are faced with an irate customer or an upset employee, we should remember how Lincoln bore Stanton’s and others abuse. We should ask ourselves this: “Will I let a rude or irate person upset me and interfere with my ability to do my job?” By adopting and practicing an attitude of patience and courtesy, we can develop the tolerance and leadership needed to become a successful leader of our Company. Related Articles and Information: Four Characteristics of a Successful Person Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

LOYALTY

Loyalty is defined as the quality of being loyal. Sounds fairly simple and straightforward. Many people usually think of loyalty as it is related to Customers. Customer Loyalty is obviously important and it is paramount to the success of a Company. However, there is another loyalty that is also important. The loyalty between employees and their Company is a two way street and brings to mind the “chicken or the egg” axiom. Employers should expect allegiance and dedication from their employees. This will allow the employer the comfort of knowing employees will do and say the right thing. However, this allegiance must be earned. Simple things matter like an inquiry regarding an employee’s family or supporting an employee in a controversy will help build that allegiance. Are the employees “selling” the Company when they are not on the job? If they are not, then perhaps they are unaware of the vision of the Company. Exhibiting that the Company intends to grow, thereby giving employees an opportunity for advancement and a career with the Company is a demonstrative way of building that loyalty. If a Company displays loyalty to their employees then it follows that their employees will display loyalty to the Company. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

MAKE YOUR COMPANY FAMOUS

There are many reasons consumers make their buying decision. Among them are a Company’s name recognition and reputation. Whether you are a long time established business or just getting started, you can assist the process of being recognized (Famous). Create a “uniqueness” about your Company. Do you have a special product or service you offer? Do you have a signature item or a logo that identifies your Company? Anything that sets you apart from your competition should be strategically promoted and marketed. People love information. A consumer “hotline” could be set up on your website listing upcoming events and topics relevant to the area. Offer to appear on area radio or television “talk” shows. Many of these shows are always looking for credible guests. By offering your expertise in the care and maintenance of carpets, furniture and other services you may provide, you will become “the expert” in your market. These shows would provide a platform to be Famous through increased exposure and the opportunity to talk to potential customers. Do not shy away or be afraid of this type of exposure. You are an expert in your field and can turn that expertise into a marketing “goldmine” and the opportunity to be Famous. Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

GOOD SERVICE vs BAD SERVICE

The last few years have been, to say the least, difficult. While COVID is still in our everyday lives, it is not the “monster” that brought our country to a near standstill. The economy is still in turmoil as prices for the essentials including energy, food, utilities and housing continue to rise. Insurance is increasing at a rate 15-20% per year. Taxes and fees on mobile phones and land lines have increased. There are other examples too numerous to list. Granted there is always inflation but these past years increases have been at historical rates. The sum and substance of these increases is that it obviously costs businesses more to operate than it did in subsequent years. So what has and what will beyond these increases cause some Companies to survive and others to fail? The answer is Good Service or more aptly put Bad Service. Service is derived from the word “serve” and generally defined as the action of helping or doing work for someone. Depending on the industry providing Good Service for someone may entail some or all of the following elements. Showing up on time to do the work. Performing the work at hand quickly and efficiently. Possessing a polite and pleasing attitude. Quickly and satisfactorily resolving any issues or complaints. The antithesis of Good Service is obviously Bad Service. Sadly, some businesses are oblivious to the fact they are rendering Bad Service. Leaving customers on hold for extended periods. Not returning phone calls or e-mails promptly if at all. A lackadaisical or flippant attitude towards customers initial needs. Slow response time to customers problems or questions. A Company may believe they are providing Good Service. That said, they should continually monitor their Company to prevent inadvertently providing Bad Service. Related Articles and Information: Competitive Edge Customer Service in the Carpet Cleaning Industry Phone Courtesy Telephone Etiquette in the Carpet Cleaning Business The 15 Factors of Success in Carpet Cleaning Business The Customer Is (Still) Always Right There Is No Substitute for Service Twenty Steps to Success Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

CONTACT

It is very important to maintain contact with the customers in your data basis. While seeming to be obvious to most, it is staggering the number of Companies that fail to do just that. It costs in advertising dollars to obtain a customer the first time but when there are subsequent service trips the advertising cost is eliminated thus making the return trips more profitable There should be contact with customers at the very minimum on an annual basis. They may not require your services at that time but the importance of keeping your name in front of them is the side benefit of the contact and should not be overlooked. This contact may be made in a variety of ways: Via phone. The least palatable in our opinion and bordering on invasive. We all receive spam calls every day on a variety of topics, scams, etc. Don’t let the contact of your customer fall into that category. Via text. Permission should be received from the customer for contact in this manner. This method is suitable for the day of a service appointment but may not fall into the category of acceptable for any other reason on any other occasion. Via “snail mail”. Yes, companies still mail literature to their customers. With this approach, you are putting a tangible piece of sales literature into their hands. An enticement of a promotional discount may produce immediate results. Via E-mail. While certainly cost effective, this method is also akin to phone and text contact. Customers should be asked if contact by e-mail is acceptable. Additionally, there should be a method for the customer to unsubscribe if they do not wish to receive further e-mails. Respect the privacy of your customer and contact them with their privacy in mind. Related Articles and Information: ABCs of Advertising Advertising - the Essential Element Advertising the Bane-Clene Way Phone Courtesy Telephone Etiquette in the Carpet Cleaning Business Why Doesn’t My Advertising Work? Related Carpet Cleaning Business Products: Advertising Handbook for Carpet Cleaning Companies Gift Service Certificate Just A Reminder Postcard Thank You / Reply Card Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner

CORRESPONDENCE

Correspondence, communications and messages come in many forms including text messages, e-mails, “tweets”, Facebook posts just to name a few. While these may be appropriate for personal contact they should not be deemed suitable for business correspondence. As business professionals there are times when we need to send correspondence to a customer or prospective client. This may be necessary as a follow up, a proposal or dealing with a problem or other issue. Writing letters may or may not come naturally to people. In fact, some view the possibility with extreme dread. We often times expend many hours a week on the phone talking to customers about various issues. So, if you find talking on the phone fairly easy, why not transfer your phone techniques and etiquette into a letter? The reason for a letter may exist for a variety of reasons. Is it an apology? Is it an answer to a question or multiple questions? Is it a followup to a proposal? Whatever the purpose of the letter, there should be an opening salutation addressing the person to whom the letter is intended and the reason for the letter. The body of the letter should then address the subject matter of the letter. If there was a problem or issue, then a solution should be outlined with all the necessary and pertinent information and a time line for completion. Avoid being vindictive or assessing blame even though that is quite the popular trend these days. Whatever the purpose of the letter is, the information and the response should be kept as simple as possible avoiding any unnecessary words or descriptions. Normally in correspondence, the more said may be too much and the less said may be just the right amount. The correspondence should be proofed, thus allowing for the correction of any spelling or grammatical errors. Additionally, all correspondence should be reviewed and scrutinized before sending. Finally address and send the correspondence via “snail mail” as this will add that personal touch for the recipient. Related Articles and Information: Customer Service in the Carpet Cleaning Industry Phone Courtesy Telephone Etiquette in the Carpet Cleaning Business The Customer Is (Still) Always Right Related Carpet Cleaning Business Products: Just A Reminder Postcard Thank You / Reply Card Thank you for reading Bane’s Blog® Please read the latest issue of the Clene-Times® at www.baneclene.com/publications/. Please visit our web site at www.baneclene.com. The Bane-Clene® Team. Free Bane-Clene Information Package Free packet of information about Bane-Clene can be obtained by calling toll-free 1-800-428-9512 (U.S. ONLY!). Your information packet will include a full color catalog and price addendum. Packets will arrive in approximately 2 weeks through standard United States Mail. You can also order the packet at the Catalog Request Form. Bane-Clene Home Page Articles, Videos and Products for Professional Carpet Cleaners On-Line Spot & Stain Removal Guide & Procedures for the Professional Carpet Cleaner