There’s an old customer service rule that says, “Give the customer what they want, the way they want it.”
I couldn’t agree more. That’s why I write reports the way I do. I surveyed hundreds of customers and here’s what I learned:
- 96% – Reports should include a summary of higher priority issues.
- 81% – Bullet point format is easier to read than narrative style.
- 88% – Reports should be short and to the point.
- 88% – Provide easy access to reference material for more information.
- 98% – Headings should be used to help me stay oriented.
- 99% – Reports should make it clear why something is an issue.
- 97% – Reports should tell me what to do about the issues.
- 92% – Illustrations are helpful to further define the issues.
- 98% – Include digital photos (a picture is worth a thousand words).
- 87% – Deliver the report in 24 hours or less so I can act quickly.
In short, every item listed in the report should have:
- The problem
- The implication
- The location
- The recommended action
- The recommended time frame
The attached sample report by Carson Dunlop, created with their Horizon Report Writing Software is my reporting system of choice because it achieves all of the above.
Your report will be in the same visually attractive, easy-to-read format and include Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) required documentation.
Click on the image below to view a sample:
