Meaning ● Customer Net Emotional Value (CNEV) represents a key metric for SMBs, quantifying the overall emotional impact a business has on its customers, measured by the balance between positive and negative emotional experiences. In the context of SMB growth, automation initiatives can significantly influence CNEV, either positively through streamlined processes and personalized interactions, or negatively through impersonal and ineffective implementations. For example, automating customer service without maintaining a human touch might diminish positive emotional connections, leading to decreased customer loyalty. Successful implementation of automation tools requires careful consideration of their impact on the customer’s emotional journey to ensure growth isn’t achieved at the expense of customer satisfaction and long-term advocacy. Ultimately, a high CNEV suggests a strong brand reputation, leading to increased customer retention and positive word-of-mouth referrals, crucial elements for SMB success and sustainability in a competitive market. A low CNEV can indicate areas needing immediate improvements within the customer journey and business model.