Customer-centricity is the holy grail of modern business, but what does it really mean? In this episode, we'll dive into what customer-centricity looks like in practice, and how companies can build it into their DNA. Our guest, Chris Hood, is an expert in helping companies build their business around customer needs. He'll share real-world examples, best practices, and strategies for putting customers at the heart of everything you do.
Customer-centricity isn't just about making your customers happy - it's about understanding their needs and desires and then building your business around them. It's about creating an ecosystem that caters to their wants and needs, not just selling them products and services. It's about creating an experience that delights them and makes them feel understood and valued.
Chris Hood is an internationally recognized voice, thought leader, and digital strategist with over 35 years of experience in online business and technology development. He often speaks to audiences about cultures of innovation, customer-centric mindsets, and digital acceleration. He currently hosts The Chris Hood Digital Show and consults with enterprises and startups about digital acceleration. Mr. Hood teaches business and information technology at Southern New Hampshire University and Colorado Technical University. He previously worked for Google, Fox Broadcasting, and Disney and co-founded Blind Squirrel Games.
Links mentioned in this episode:
Connect with Chris, find and subscribe to his podcast, blog, social media, and stay informed about his upcoming book, all at ChrisHood.com
(0:00) Introduction and welcome
(1:15) AI's impact on businesses and personal lives
(4:17) The potential for empathetic AI and the business strategy behind unempathetic customer service
(8:16) The importance of understanding the customer in technology development
(11:18) Misuse and negative impacts of unnecessary technology in companies
(12:57) Chris Hood's take on blockchain and API ecosystems
(16:03) Problem-solving approaches in entrepreneurship and the success of Slack
(18:27) The importance of adaptation and self-evaluation in business
(20:07) Customer transformation
(20:49) Wrap up and Chris Hood's contact information