Some Sauderites will pursue investment banking; some (like I) have our hearts set in CPA accounting; some will be brilliant, shiny marketers, however at the end of the day, we are all consumers regardless of stance we take in the business world. This post refers to an entry by business blogger Guy Kawasaki, where he illustrates ten strategies that allows a business to “enchant” customers.

Here are my top three from his list:

1. Hire amiable, well-versed staff. Possibly the most obvious of the ten, this contention nonetheless holds its value. In any given environment, smiles and courtesy goes a long way. Kawasaki drives this point home, however, when he describes how wishing for the best while placing poorly paid, poorly trained associates at the cashier may not fare well with your business’ image.

2. Build trust. Zappos? Free shipping, to and from. Nordstrom? Customer’s word is key, no questions asked. Amazon? 7 days to return a book, regardless of length. Yes, these policies do open up a grey area for mishaps, but if you put your trust on the table, so will the customer.

Trust = Profits

3. Acknowledge all parties at hand. Kawasaki claims that his daughter influences his buying decisions. As for me, I know I can’t buy certain articles of clothing without my mother nagging. Don’t just appeal to the person browsing your store – also appeal to the person who will be swiping their card at the register.