We’re back in Bangkok for a few days before heading back to the States, and I have to give credit where credit is due.

Kalia planned every single detail of this trip meticulously, and I mean meticulously.

From the boutique hotels to the breathtaking experiences, from the incredible meals to the unexpected moments of awe, everything was seamless.

I already had high expectations—how could I not? I know how much effort she put into creating this itinerary. But what’s blown me away is how those expectations weren’t just met—they were exceeded.

Every experience, every stop on this journey, was unforgettable. And it got me thinking about how, in life and business, exceeding expectations is one of the most powerful ways to build credibility.

Think about it. When someone has high expectations of you, and you deliver more than they anticipated, you don’t just meet their needs—you wow them. You become someone they trust deeply and want to recommend to others.

But here’s the catch: You can’t exceed expectations if you don’t know what they are.

This brings me to today’s lesson about credibility: Ask your clients the right questions upfront.

When you’re sitting with a prospect, take the time to ask meaningful, open-ended questions to uncover their true goals, desires, and concerns. Things like:

• “What’s the outcome you’re hoping for?”
• “What’s most important to you about this process?”
• “Have you had a negative experience in the past that I should know about?”

When you understand what’s most important to them, you can not only meet their expectations—you can blow right past them.

Just like Kalia did for me on this trip.

So, the next time you’re sitting down with a prospect, remember: Exceeding expectations isn’t magic. It’s strategy. It starts with knowing what they really want and finding ways to deliver even more.

Kick butt, make mucho DEEnero!

Dave “Surpassed in Bangkok” Dee

P.S. This month’s Inner Sanctum newsletter is your step-by-step guide to creating a Signature Credibility Report that builds trust, establishes authority, and attracts high-value clients. The issue goes to print on January 31st—don’t miss it. Join here: www.davedee.com/innersanctum