What Small Businesses Can Learn from Olympic Athletes?  

According to a latest forecast the Euros and the Olympics will deliver a £233m boost to the UK economy. This should keep small business owners across all sectors busy and ‘warming up’ for increased footfall.

Experts predict a spending surge among fans going out to pubs as well as those stocking up on drinks and food for gatherings at home. If sports fan have not already upgraded their TVs for the football then they may also be tempted to do so for watching the Olympics.

For pub owners, this is a great time to ensure your venue is ready for the influx of customers. Reliable WiFi is crucial for keeping customers happy during the big games.

As our athletes battle for medals, we give you a few ‘Olympic’ tips below on how you can win with your customer experience…

1. Consistency and sustainability 

Most athletes show up 100% of the time. Even if life throws you a curve ‘discus or javelin’ being consistent in your customer service.  This means always being on form to deliver the best experience for anyone who walks through your door.  

This includes having reliable business broadband, so your customers can enjoy the use of wifi.

Regular customers know what they like and what they expect to keep them coming back. Whatever works well, make sure it’s sustainable too – so if you offer a free refill or take out cutlery make sure the sustainability message is clear.

2. Being the best at what you do (or better)

Olympians don’t focus on the performance of the person in the next lane, they focus on who they can control – themselves! If you’re a small business owner don’t be focussed on beating your competition. Work hard on delivering the very best that YOU can. Keep your best customer in mind and treat them how you know you like to be treated yourself.

3. Supporting family and friends (and customers)

Being surrounded by people who are willing you to do well can have a great impact on an athlete. As a small business owner engaging with your local community to secure their support can go a long way to building customer loyalty and repeat buyers. Get your brand at local events, donate to a local cause or charity or volunteer or even offer discounts with a loyalty scheme.

4. Adaptability

Great athletes always find a way to adapt when things don’t go to plan. If a product just isn’t selling or you find yourself over worked during busy lunchtimes then look at how you can manage the situation and respond. You could offer a promotion with the product and recruit more lunchtime staff if you run a café or restaurant.

5. Positive mental attitude – focus

When it’s time for an athlete to practice or train, all other distractions go away. Be more like a medallist and give your business the attention it deserves. Take time to focus on your business and how you can improve or enhance it with no other distractions. This might include improving your card payment terminals to streamline transactions and enhance customer satisfaction. Spending even just an hour a week on your business plan or marketing can put you in a much better starting position, and make sure you reach the finish line!