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Customer service can make a huge difference to the profitability and success of your business. It can be the differentiating factor between you and your competitor, the difference that makes customers return to your business over theirs. So, why would you not want to focus on your customer service? If you are feeling persuaded to up your customer service game then here are some tips to help you and your business stand out when it comes to offering stellar service. The best thing about this advice is that it is universal, it can be applied to all business models, whether you are an oil company or social media start-up.
Know your business and your product
You want to be able to answer almost any question that comes your way. Of course, there will be questions that you cannot answer and that is OK but when it comes to operational questions or product questions you should be armed with the answers your customers need. It will also help you to really sell your product and example to your customers why your products are beneficial or better than the competitors. Ultimately, you want to help your customers as much as possible to get the most out of your products or services. They will be left feeling that they have great value for money and have been treated with respect and honesty. These are the building blocks to forming a trusted customer relationship which is the ultimate goal when trying to improve customer service.
Be a problem solver
No matter what you do or how hard you work to offer failsafe services or products there will always be problems that you have to overcome. If a customer comes to you with a problem you want to be sure to solve that problem. Offer alternatives or compensatory measures if you think that will help and keep your company’s reputation intact.
Always communicate
If a customer is trying to reach you but cannot get through to speak to anyone or emails go unanswered they will become frustrated and lose trust and confidence in your business. Failure to offer strong communication is one of the most damaging things you can do to your customer service reputation. What is more, customers of today expect instant responses. Social media, emails, and direct messaging have made business communication more accessible than ever, and more and more companies are operating outside of typical business hours. If you do not have the manpower or capability to operate your customer service teams at all hours then consider using automated chatbot services to appease customers out of hours until the staff is able to respond during business hours.
Be friendly and be polite
Manners cost nothing yet they will earn you a lot of respect and credibility. Further many customers feel apprehensive when it comes to dealing with a new business. You can help to disarm them and ensure they automatically feel comfortable and at ease using your services by always being a friendly face or voice.
