It’s been far too long since we blogged here at LibraryTrax, I know. We’ll try not to be away so long from now on. Here’s one I hope will stir conversation.
I’ve had discussions over the years on whether to call the people who use our services “customers” or “patrons.” I’ve grown fond of “customer” myself, and I’ve finally found something that may explain why it appeals to me so much.
John Jantsch, over on the Duct Tape Marketing Blog, writes about the choice between “customer” and “client”:
The idea for this post actually goes to Ridgely Evers, founder of NetBooks. In a brief discussion he mentioned the origin of the word customer is the Latin - consuetudinem, coming from one’s habit or custom - or, someone’s customary practice do something repeatedly. The root of client is the Latin cliens, more closely related to the idea of a follower.
He goes on to say:
I don’t know about you, but I know I want my customers to know, like, trust, call and refer me repeatedly. I want them to grow accustomed to my blog. I want it to be their custom to think of me whenever they need a practical marketing tip. So, customer it is for me.
Me too!
