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Why You Should Embrace A Client-Centric Approach

Why You Should Embrace A Client-Centric Approach

November 18, 20232 min read

Among the myriad of client interactions, one principle, in particular, stands out: the art of empathetic problem ownership. In other words, embracing a client-centric approach. 

It involves taking on a client's problem, owning it entirely, and ensuring their concerns are heard and genuinely addressed. This article explores how the approach fosters client satisfaction and contributes to your journey towards time freedom. 

The Disconnect of Different Perspectives 

When clients share their concerns, they often view the problem from their unique vantage point. This perspective is shaped by their expectations, experiences, and emotions. On the other side, as service providers, our view is influenced by processes, logistics, and business priorities. And if we’re not careful, these differing viewpoints can create a gap in understanding. 

So, it's vital to practice a client-centric approach. Instead of perceiving the issue solely from your organisational standpoint, step into the client's shoes. Take the problem off their shoulders and make it your own. This shift in perspective is foundational to resolving issues effectively. 

Here are a few other tips to help you embrace a client-centric approach: 

The Healing Power of Apologies 

When a client is unhappy, a sincere apology is the first step towards demonstrating empathy. Acknowledge their feelings and express your regret for any inconvenience or dissatisfaction they've experienced. An apology doesn't admit fault; it signifies empathy and commitment to resolution. 

Making Clients Feel Heard 

Active listening is a cornerstone of a client-centric approach. Ensure your clients feel heard by giving them your full attention. Encourage them to share their perspective, concerns, and emotions, as this validates their experience and helps them gain a deeper understanding of the problem. 

Transparency and Communication 

Transparency is crucial to building trust. Communicate your intentions clearly, outlining the steps you'll take to address the problem. Keep the client informed throughout the resolution process, setting realistic expectations regarding timelines and outcomes. 

 

Once you've taken ownership of the problem and the client feels heard and respected, investigate the cause. Analyse processes, identify issues and implement necessary changes to prevent similar problems in the future. 

Embracing a client-centric approach isn't just about client satisfaction; it's also about optimising your time. By addressing issues comprehensively and preventing recurring problems, you reduce the time and energy spent on firefighting and, instead, focus on proactive solutions and growth. It ensures client satisfaction and streamlines your operations. It fosters a culture of empathy, transparency, and proactive resolution, ultimately contributing to your time freedom goals. By making clients feel heard and valued, you're not just resolving their issues; you're strengthening relationships and building a foundation for a harmonious, client-centric business that aligns with your vision of time freedom. 

Are you ready to learn more about embracing a client-centric approach? 

Then connect to The Time Alchemist. 

Click here to learn more a about Time Freedom Alchemist Courses and find out how to book on our mindset course  

 

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Tracy Irwin

Tracy’s business career took off at age 21 when she joined a small electrical contractor taking care of the day-to-day running of the office. In just a couple of years, the firm grew from 12 electricians to 150 and became so successful that, in 2006, it was bought out by a much larger organisation. While it was great news for the company, Tracy felt like sobbing! Because she knew it was highly likely someone would take ‘her’ accounts away from her, and they did. Her role changed to Contracts Manager … a great job with lots of responsibility, but she missed her previous position’s financial planning and detail. During this time, a friend asked Tracy for help with her payroll, and it was this request that gave Tracy the idea of offering a payroll service to small businesses that would be cost-effective and time effective. She established self-employed status to keep everything above board and began her ‘part-time entrepreneurial life’! A passing comment by her boss that her payroll business was “a nice hobby, but she’d never make a living out of it” fuelled her determination to make it work, and she decided it was time to take the plunge: she gave up her full-time job to focus on her payroll and accounting business. With the help and support of her mum, she formally launched TI Accountancy into the South Lakes & Furness business community in 2002. The last two decades have been spent growing TI Accountancy. With her thirst for knowledge, progressive attitude and the support of her team, especially her directors (two of whom began as apprentices), she prides herself on ensuring the company’s policies are modern and forward-thinking. It’s crucial to Tracy that the business continues to adapt and grow, leaving a valuable imprint on the business community they serve for years to come. Tracy now fulfils her role in the business from her home in Spain and remains open to fresh ideas and methods of working and new ways of helping their fantastic clients. She’s also studying for a degree. That still leaves time to act as a trustee for two charities: Women’s Community Matters, which offers a variety of one-to-one support, courses, activities, support groups and access to specialist services for vulnerable people. And Sisterwood, who, in a forestry setting, provides an educational programme to young adults who identify as female and whose mental well-being affects their daily life. Time is also found for creativity, and her hobby of crochet allows her to make gifts for loved ones’ babies and donate handmade gifts to charities to raffle. When she’s not busy doing everything mentioned, Tracy loves walking with her partner, Gerard, and dogs, Pixel and Bentley and welcoming family and friends into her home for a well-earned break.

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How Tracy has helped other clients ...

Ashley Leeds


As a business coach myself, I know the benefit of working with someone to keep you in check. Tracy is that person. I'm a busy guy with so many things grabbing my attention and with my disposition to help people, my business has grown, but more by luck than engineering.

With over 30 years of sales experience, you'd think I'd have that part of my business nailed. Sadly not.

But working with Tracy has helped me to overcome my barriers to being a sales guy in my business which has seen a step change in not only my attitude but my new sales and pipeline. We have also implemented a new sales process and my funnel is properly focussed with awesome calls to action.

Tracy is patient but thoughtful with her questions and she pushes me when I need a kick and is there for me when I need an idea or a nudge.

Since working with Tracy, my business has grown, my prices increased and I am confident that the prep that we have put in will see me smashing my goals.

On top of that, with her awesome ideas for being super smart with time I am finding I have more time in my business and I have learnt to say no.

Working with Tracy has definitely had a transformation for me. Even my friend noticed the way that I was talking about my business and the new spring in my step.

Tracy is awesome. If you get a chance to work with her, grab it with both hands and you'll not regret it.

Dr Chris Wood

Tracy has a special ability to help decide the complexities of running your business and the numbers that come along with that. In a nutshell, her coaching has not only helped me run my business more efficiently and intelligently but also helped me gain control of running my business again so it doesn't run me!

Antoine Marsden


Tracy is the lighthouse that will show you the rocks when you are likely to run aground but will also keep you safe when you are tired and weary from looking over the finances in your business. She helps you to expand your thinking and gives you scope to visualise how you want your business to look and she will help you make it reality.

I can honestly say I have never met an accountant who will add such huge value outside of doing the numbers for a business. She is thoughtful, kind, flexible, forgiving and nurturing but she will pull you up when you need it and tell you things that you might not want to hear, but have to.

She is a fantastic person inside and out, and I can't see me working with another accountant Don't hesitate to hire her for your business or to help you manage your own finances. She's the best investment you will make.

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