Customer Service The Old-Fashioned Way

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Did you ever wonder what happened to customer service? With automatic pre-recorded operators, internet forms to fill out, it’s mind-boggling to think about where all the human beings went. There are more people than ever inhabiting this planet. More goods, more services, and surely there should be more people working on the customer service end. What on earth happened?

With quickly-evolving technologies and new industries sprouting like toadstools on an almost daily basis, it may be understandable why service initially got swept under the rug. But no more. These days, there is so much choice. The big boys, the monopolies, are not as strong as they used to be. The words “boutique” and “micro” are what sell. Smaller companies that know they need to put a human, understanding face forward in order to survive. And the worst customer service offenders are finally learning that they are already and will be losing business because of their extremely lax policies. In this climate, it is of utmost importance to be the best in customer service -- it's becoming a deal-breaker.

In the olden days…

A) Customer service was king. Always.

B) Customers were special. When a butcher sets aside the choicest cuts for a customer without being asked; when the owners of clothing boutique greet their clients by name and give them a small discount, customers feel important, cared for, looked after. They may not be the least expensive services in town, but people will come back. Again and again. The best customer is a repeat customer.

Connect A to B, and there is a winning equation.

Experts are predicting a sweeping change in the business world. In the beginning the internet seemed like (and for a while really was) the ideal place to “get rich quick.” In all actuality that will not happen for most. It may have taken you a long time already to become an expert, and you may be the very best in your field. But it’s important to remember that there is no such thing as a free lunch. You will not get rich without putting in the work.

How to (Re) Connect with your Customer

· Employees - if you employ even one person, it’s essential to remember that your customer service will only be as good as you treat your employee. Your employees are the front line. As low down on the totem as they may be, they are one of your best yet most variable assets. Pay well, offer benefits, make them feel valued - and they will do you proud. Pride and a sense of ownership in a company goes a long, long way in providing customer service.

· Know Your Customer - remember your clients’ names, their special preferences, likes, dislikes, purchasing history, personal facts. Make them feel known and welcome.

· Be Visible - whether you have a corner shop, a corporate office, or an online business, make sure your customers know who you are. Hiding in an office can hurt your business. Walking the floor, picking up the phone, or sending a personal email go a long way. Also, when you become an expert in your field, developing an internet presence will not only help grow your business, but increase your credibility and visibility to your customer base.

· Go the Extra Mile - Keep track of your customers, their purchases, and their personal milestones. Thank you cards, reminder cards, birthday cards are so important. If you see an item a client might love, let them know. If a customer makes a special request, do your very best to deliver. These steps in particular will make you stand out.

· Know how to deal with complaints - irate customers are unhappy customers. Learning how to effectively diffuse these situations is very important. Listening to them, responding with sympathy, and doing your utmost to ameliorate the situation is key. Having procedures in place to handle these situations will help your employees as well.

· Feedback - Don’t be afraid to ask your clients how you’re doing. For instance, at the end of every project you could provide a questionnaire. Even something as simple as telling your customers to always feel free to knock on your door with a suggestion will make them feel that they have a stake in improving your services.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. You can be sure that the good ole days are indeed on their way back in. It’s important to stay informed and stay on top of your game.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

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