Small businesses run because of their customers. Excellent customer service creates loyal customers. These loyal customers tend to refer their friends, family, and peers to your business. To provide excellent customer service, you have to have a genuine desire to do so. Small businesses go way beyond solely selling products and services. You need to consider the whole experience a customer has when they seek out your business. REIL has some tips to help you provide excellent customer service below.
First Thing: A Greeting
Customer service starts with a greeting. Whether you are on the phone, or a customer physically enters your store, start with a greeting. This will be the first impression the customer has of your business. A first impression can go a long way. Customers do not want to engage with employees or business owners who are pushy or rude. People want their interaction with a business to be smooth, easy, and cordial.
Know What You’re Selling
As an employee or business owner, it is important to know what your business is selling. Whether it is a service or product, know it inside and out. Be cognizant of the common questions customers will ask. They will feel comfortable purchasing from your business if you are knowledgeable about the product/service itself. Leave them satisfied in knowing they received the best service or product possible!
Listen
Not every customer you help is going to be easygoing and happy. There are days when your business can be presented with some difficult problems and people. However frustrating, be sure to listen. Hear what your customers are saying, and try to alter the situation to make them pleased/ happy with your response. There is nothing worse than non-responsiveness to those who complain and only responses to those who are happy. Show reliability and respect that every business, even yours, can make mistakes!
Use the Feedback You Receive
Regularly review the feedback you receive from customers. Take time to identify areas that need improvement as well as realize where your strengths lie. Train employees to focus on those weak spots, and reward them for their strengths. The best way to improve your business is to actually use the feedback your customers are taking the time to provide you.
REIL Advice
If you are in need of any other customer service tips, check out the rest of REIL’s blog. Also, if you are in need of funds to improve your customer service overall, fill out our commitment-free application today!
