Sometimes our clients open up and share deeply. The topic doesn't matter: it could be a troubling personal or business issue. But the fact that they trust us and share openly is important.
I'm not talking about becoming a psychotherapist, but simply being supportive if given the chance. In the e-mail below, I thanked a client for her openness, and she thanked me for listening. There are rare exceptions, but generally I consider my clients my friends.
To: Grace Ogunwo
From: William S. Frank
Sent: May 15, 20— 3:44 PM
Subject: Thanks for sharing . . .
Grace,
Thanks for sharing what's on your heart today.
As we discussed, you know exactly what you're doing and where you're going. There is no doubt about that, whatsoever. I enjoy your friendship immensely, and have a world of faith in you.
:Bill
To: William S. Frank
From: Grace Ogunwo
Sent: May 15, 20— 4:26 PM
Subject: RE: Thanks for sharing . . .
Thank you, Bill. It's on days such as these that the very sweetness of friendship acts like a natural and refreshing condiment subduing the other flavors and feelings I was experiencing.
Thank you for your friendship and the time you spent. Those moments changed my day — heck, the rest of the year and then some. I appreciate your faith and perspective.
Grace