Customer Service Counts!

The backbone for any functional small business is customer service. Good customer service is all about bringing customers back. Customer service is also about sending them away happy enough to pass on positive feedback about your business to others who may then use your services or buy your product. Leaving a positive lasting impression is the key to a successful small business.

The essence of good customer service is forming a relationship with customers – a relationship that that individual customer feels that he or she would like to pursue. How do you form this type of relationship? Consider what you do rather than just what you say. A positive attitude coupled with proactive follow through will leave a positive lasting impression with your customers. Follow these six easy tips to ensure you are giving your customers the best service possible.

Answer the phone
This sounds like a no brainer, but make sure someone is there to answer all of your incoming calls. Not only do you want to make sure you are receiving all of the business you can, you also want your customers to be heard. Many customers are not likely to leave voicemails, thus leaving you with a lost customer. Make sure you are answering the phone every time, as quickly as you can in order to make a good first impression with your customers.

Deal with complaints
Not all interactions with customers will be positive; you are bound to encounter some bumps along the way. Assess the issue and find a solution. Do not fall into the attitude of, “you can’t please ‘em all.” While this may be true, that does not mean you should not try. Give every complaint attention and provide a response. Making an effort to help an unhappy customer will reflect well on your business, thus allowing you to reap the benefits of good customer service.

Listen to your customers
Again, while this sounds redundant listening to your customers is vital. Do not simply run through the motions, pay attention to each individual person with whom you come into contact. Let your customer talk and show him that you are listening by making the appropriate responses, such as suggesting how to solve the problem. Let the customer know that you are there to serve them and you are actually listening, and understanding, what they want.

Follow through with your promises
Make sure you do all that you say you will for your customer. Reliability is one of the keys to any good relationship, and good customer service is no exception. If you tell the customer they will receive their product on Wednesday, make sure you follow through. Have a full understanding of how your business works so you can avoid mistakes when giving your customers information and deadlines. Make 100% sure that you can do everything you tell your customer you will.

Be polite
Being polite is the foundation of being professional. Of course you should be kind and courteous with your customers, but try to go above and beyond. Present yourself with a polished, responsible attitude. This impression will carry over to the overall impression of your business. Regardless of how frustrated you may be with a certain customer, your actions reflect your business. Make sure you put your best food forward and always be polite.

Go the extra mile
Putting in extra effort is sure to impress your customers and inspire confidence in your business. Going above what is necessary such as providing a discount or an additional free item reflects well on your business. You are conveying the message that you are there to serve your customers and you want them to be happy. This image will resonate positively with your customers and will result in referrals.

While it sounds like a no brainer, providing quality customer service is essential to your business. Your customers are the fuel that drives your business. Treat them accordingly! At MyCorporation we do all that we can to provide quality customer service to all of our customers. Learn more about what MyCorporation can do for your business HERE!