As your business life evolves, you'll encounter obstacles and naturally seek effective solutions. One thing it's useful to learn is that no single, correct view exists for any situation.  Just as you think you arrive at the best solution, you discover other possible answers. This may drive you crazy!

Recognize that any notion of a permanent answer is unfounded because life is always evolving.  Your understanding of a matter is always changing.  How you perceive yourself and the issue will change with time.  If you decide to believe there is only 'one right way,' you may have to learn to live with anxiety and uncertainty.  Yet, if you decide to remain flexible, you'll value changing answers to multi-faceted issues. Business strategies are always accessible at your fingertips.

Consider how you react to an unsatisfied customer can teach you much about yourself.  Although situaions and perceptions may be constantly changing, if you treat people well, this reflects back.

1) Are you calm and understanding? If a client expresses negative energy and disconternt, it will not help matters if you get upset too.  This is an exercise for your tolerance and self-control.

2) Do you express gratitude? When you agree with a client, it empowers that person.  You're business wouldn't exist without clients.  Show you value their time, comments and satisfaction.  If you aim to provide a product or service, the more you learn about them, the better off you'll be.

3) Can you emphasize more positives? As you listen to complaints, you're in a position to determine whether the item was helpful in some ways. Redirect that energy.  Then, highlight how you can assist the client, rather than focus on what is irrelevant or beyond your capacities.

4) Could you refer peers? None of us know it all.  If the client is unreasonable, obscene or overly emotional, or you simply can't assist in a matter, referring the client to someone else could help solve the issue.  This portrays strong teamwork.

5) Have you indicated you'll follow up? Commitment is part of what defines a good reputation.  If you clarify what a client can expect and on what timeline, and you meet that, you will gain the client's respect.  It's desireable to under-promise and over-deliver. Don't over guarantee things.