Let's Talk Service

Working with Contractors Being Honest in Service

In today's episode of Let's Talk Service, our host Eve Ward, founder of move concierge and relocation company Bond and Des Voeux, discusses the most productive, positive ways to work with contractors, and how best to spot any potential red flags along the way. Eve also delves into methods of measuring honesty between two parties, as well as the importance of setting out expectations at the beginning of any partnership. She examines how a job or contract can be successful if clear and honest communication is utilized, and the importance of patience. All this and more, on this week's episode of Let's Talk Service. In this episode, we discuss: [1:49] - networking in the relocation industry [3:50] - the importance of written and verbal agreements [4:09] - sticking to timelines [4:40] - you must talk about budgets! [5:26] - providing constructive feedback [8:20] - red flags and how to address them [10:50] - recommendations, reviews and references

Why is it So Hard to be Honest in Service?

In today's episode of Let's Talk Service, our host Eve Ward discusses why it's so hard to be honest with service providers, particularly those that work in our homes. Why do we struggle to ask for what we want? And how can we tell a service provider they haven't given us what we asked for, without coming across as rude, or upsetting anyone? Eve also gives her thoughts on tipping culture while recounting her recent experience of buying a coffee; why do we feel so pressured to give, and what's considered too much or too little? All this and more, on this week's episode of Let's Talk Service. In this episode, we discuss: [0:40] - our frustrations this week [2:18] - how do our emotions act as barriers to honesty? [3:15] - Eve's hammer; an experience [5:40] - the importance of communication [9:35] - both sides of the client/service provider relationship [12:00] - honesty in our industry [13:37] - annoyance clouds our judgment [15:02] - the varied ways people speak to me

Forging Relationships with Cleaning Service Providers

In this episode of Let's Talk Service, Eve considers the importance of forging bonds with the people we work with, specifically with cleaning staff, and the impact this can have on the work provided, and future relationships. Eve ponders the effects of making staff feel valued, and how this might alter their output and the quality of their work. She also delves into the importance of setting out requirements before a job begins. Just how important is it to do your research before working with a cleaning company? And how do differing standards influence decisions? All this and more on this episode of Let's Talk Service. In this episode, we discuss: [0:55] - The example of cleaning [2:52] - The importance of doing your homework [5:55] - Being clear with your requirements [6:54] - Who supplies what in this partnership? [8:24] - Pricing [10:00] - Feedback is from both sides

Where Has All the Service Gone?

In this episode of Let's Talk Service, Eve ponders a recent shift in the service industry. She examines the dichotomy between the emergence of ever-more-advancing technology and receiving a top level of service, and considers whether a lack of personalized service is turning too many potential customers off. Questions like 'Can chatbots show warmth?' and 'Is familiarity with service providers detrimental?' are also looked into. Join Eve as she tries to discover the reasons for the gaps in the service industry, explains the importance of honesty between all parties, and asks 'Where has all the service gone?' In this episode, we discuss: [0:48] - What does it mean to be a customer today? [2:12] - How do we keep up with expectations? [3:03] - Gaps in service providers [4:00] - Equal focus on clients and vendors [6:20] - Understanding our vendors [8:10] - The shift is in the value [9:10] - What makes a service provider good? [11:10] - Taking pride in growing a business Connect with Us: LinkedIn

Timed Tables

In this episode of Let's Talk Service, Eve looks into the concept of the timed table, a necessary tactic for restaurants and bars during the Covid-19 pandemic. 90 minutes might sound like long enough to enjoy a nice meal out at a restaurant, but is it? What about circumstances where it's not enough? And what's best for both the restaurant and the customer to manage the situation? Eve answers these questions and discusses how to achieve a balance between a restaurant making money, and keeping its customers satisfied. In this episode, we discuss: Timestamps: [01:11] - What is a timed table? [02:21] - Eve's experience with a local restaurant [04:50] - Evoking an emotional reaction [05:20] - Managing expectations [07.26] - Understanding both sides