Every business has its individual rules to stick by in order to succeed. Different companies need to focus on different areas and consequently place emphasis on different values and qualities. However, a saying that you will hear thrown around in association with any business is that “the customer is always right”. Now, this quote is often attributed to (or associated with) the owners of Selfridges and Macy’s – these companies have flourished and withstood the test of time, so surely their owners must have known a thing or two about how a business should be run. So, how can you go about offering the best customer service possible? Read on for a few invaluable tips and tricks.
Is the Customer Really Always Right?
Now, of course, not every single customer is going to be right. Some will be unreasonable. Some will make unrealistic demands. Some will have unrealistic expectations. But when it comes down to it, you really do need to focus on ensuring that every customer is as happy with your products or services as possible. You need to listen to these people and what they have to say in order to improve your company and the way that it functions. This will help to maintain high quality service and will bring people back to you time and time again.
Offering High-Quality Customer Service
So, what can you do to offer your customers the best quality service possible? Follow these steps and you should get started in the right direction!
Open Up Means of Communication
In order to listen to your customers, you need to open up means of communication with them. Make sure that customers have multiple means of getting in touch. Remember that people have different preferences. Some will want to call. Some will feel uncomfortable speaking over the phone and might prefer to type queries out. Some will prefer other methods. So, make sure that you have a phone line with a phone answering service. Make sure that you supply customers with your business email address. Make sure that you have social media pages with contact buttons. Most importantly, make sure to check in on messages, reply, and rectify any complaints and put concerns to rest.
Train Your Staff
If you have employees, make sure that every single member is fully trained in regards to customer service. Make sure that they are clear on:
- How to greet customers
- How to answer queries
- How to subtly encourage sales
- How to deal with complaints or incidents
If your staff are good to your customers, your brand will be better regarded in general. Training in these simple areas can help! Remember that nothing should be left down to “common sense”, as your idea of what’s acceptable can vary drastically from someone else’s. Training clears up any misunderstandings.
