Customer Service is not just a phrase, you must give “customer service” to stay in business.
- Grateful
Always act grateful when a potential customer makes contact with you via phone, email, walk in, or social media. This is when it is decided if they want to do business with you, now or in the future. - Help
If you are unable to give the service that someone is looking for then try to refer them to somewhere else. This is not in any way taking away from your business. They may come back to you at a later date because you were helpful.
Every business owner is not suited to be the face of their company. Just because you created the business does not mean you have great people skills. Choose someone that loves people and it comes thru when they interact with clients. The first person a potential client speaks to is the impression they make about your business. Your product could be A one, however if the person at the front desk or over the phone is rude you can very easily loose a customer.
- Appreciation
If you collect emails and phone numbers check in on your clients, no sales pitches just a quick note to say we appreciate your business. - Free
Put out little goodies from time to time, nothing over the top, coffee, tea, juice, water, and bananas are all inexpensive and most people enjoy them. Your clients will be happy you did. - Real Discounts
If you are going to give a discount then give a discount. 10% off just does not cut it anymore when your average customer is spending under $50.00 dollars. Choose a slow day and give away 20% off to customers.
CEO Derrick Billingslea of Business Solutions Source says, “Always anticipate what the customer needs and over deliver”.
Never leave a customer dissatisfied. There is always something you can do to make your customer happy. You may have to bite the bullet sometimes but it will be well worth it in the long run.
Example: You misquote a price to a client. Apologize and let them know you made an error when you quoted the first price(this is the reason most successfully business owners have a price sheet).
