Recently we received a demanding customer request. I found myself at a pivotal moment in our manufacturing journey. Faced with the pressure to meet tight deadlines, I chose transparency over overcommitment.
Rather than promising the impossible, I communicated our manufacturing constraints honestly to the customer. I explained the intricacies of our production process and the potential risks of rushing the order. Surprisingly, the customer appreciated the candor and collaborated with me to find a solution that aligned with their needs and our capabilities.
This experience inspires me a lot. By setting realistic expectations, I not only prevented potential burnout within our team but also fostered trust with the customer.
In any business, saying no with integrity can lead to sustainable, long-term success.
