Should You Underpromise and Overdeliver?

Ever heard the saying, “Underpromise and overdeliver”? It’s a business mantra that’s been around forever. It sounds great in theory, but is it really the best strategy for growing your business? Let’s dive into why this old adage might be holding you back and how a different approach could revolutionize your customer relationships.

The Old Way: Underpromise and Overdeliver

Why the Cliché Still Exists

The idea behind “underpromise and overdeliver” is to set expectations lower than what you actually achieve. It’s like telling your clients, “We’ll get this done by Friday,” and then surprising them by finishing it on Wednesday. In theory, this should make clients happier and more likely to come back.

But here’s the catch: When you underpromise, you’re essentially setting a lower bar for yourself. And if you’re not clear about what you can actually deliver, it’s harder to attract new customers. Potential clients need to know what you’re all about right from the start. If you set the bar too low, they might not see the full value you offer.

A New Approach: Promise and Deliver

The Power of Keeping Your Word

Imagine a world where you simply promise what you can deliver—and then actually deliver it. Sounds revolutionary, right? But in reality, it’s a game-changer. When was the last time you experienced someone actually following through on their promises? It’s a rare delight!

Why This Works

Let’s face it: we’re living in an era where we’ve grown accustomed to disappointments. When someone does exactly what they say they will, it’s a refreshing surprise. By setting realistic promises and sticking to them, you build trust and reliability. This trust is invaluable and often leads to repeat business and referrals.

Real Results

Here’s the thing—when you overpromise and underdeliver, you risk damaging your reputation. But when you promise and deliver, you create a strong, positive image. Clients will remember your reliability and will be more likely to spread the word about your excellent service.

How to Implement This Strategy

Set Realistic Expectations

Don’t make grandiose promises just to impress. Instead, focus on making commitments you can confidently meet. This means being honest about your capabilities and deadlines.

Communicate Clearly

Keep your clients informed about progress and any potential issues. Transparency goes a long way in building trust. If something unexpected comes up, let them know right away.

Consistently Deliver

Make it a habit to follow through on what you promise. Consistency builds credibility, and credibility builds long-term client relationships.

Conclusion

So, should you continue with the old cliché of underpromising and overdelivering? Maybe not. The new approach—promise and deliver—could be the key to transforming your business. By setting realistic expectations and consistently meeting them, you’ll not only satisfy your current clients but also attract new ones who value reliability.

The next time you’re tempted to underpromise to make things easier, remember this: doing what you say you’re going to do is often the best way to stand out. Give it a shot and watch your reputation—and your business—soar.

FAQs

Q: What if I can’t always meet my promises?

A: It’s crucial to be honest about what you can deliver. If you foresee potential challenges, communicate them early. This way, you set realistic expectations and avoid overpromising.

Q: How can I ensure I don’t overpromise?

A: Assess your capabilities and resources before making any promises. Be clear about what you can deliver and avoid making commitments you’re unsure about.

Q: What are the benefits of promising and delivering?

A: By promising and delivering, you build trust, enhance your reputation, and increase customer satisfaction. This often leads to repeat business and referrals.

Q: Can this approach really impact my business growth?

A: Absolutely. When clients know they can rely on you, they’re more likely to become repeat customers and refer others to your business. This trust can significantly boost your growth and success.

Q: How do I handle situations where I might not meet my promise?

A: Communicate proactively with your clients if you anticipate any issues. Provide updates and work on solutions to mitigate any negative impact. Transparency is key to maintaining trust.

Noah’s Note: Freak people out. Do what you say you’re going to do… and watch what happens.

I believe in you!