How To Be Great At Customer Service: Part 2

Do you put your customers first? Really? When a customer complains about a price quote or an order issue, do you put the customer first? Yesterday and today, Promotional Consultant Today is sharing these tips for delivering great customer service.

6. Keep Your Promises
If you say you’re going to do something, make sure you do it. It’s part of being a professional. If you need more time on something, you should let your client know as soon as possible, not after you’ve already missed the deadline. Honoring your commitments is very important.

7. Don’t Confuse Clients With Jargon
Try to explain whatever the problem is as best as you can without making the client feel stupid. When proposing a solution, make sure you state it in terms they understand. You could use analogies that are relevant to them.

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Compiled by Cassandra Johnson

TOP SHELF TIP NO. 238
“Be everywhere, do everything and never fail to astonish the customer.”
Macy’s Department Store Motto

8. Be Patient
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve exhausted my patience on my clients. But I’ve never actually showed them my agitation. If you feel the client is overstepping the boundaries, let him or her know in a cordial and professional manner. You just don’t want to start yelling and cursing at the people from whom you make a living. Maintain professionalism at all times.

9. Know Everything You Need To Know
You are a paid expert. Someone is giving you their hard-earned money to do something in which they believe you have a high level of expertise. You need to keep yourself up-to-date with the profession and always be ready to answer questions your client needs to know. If you exhibit signs that you don’t know your craft inside out, you risk the chance of ruining your professional reputation.

10. Put Yourself In Their Shoes
If you were in their shoes and were being treated the way you’re treating them, would you enjoy that experience? If so, you’re doing a good job. If not, you probably want to get a little better. It’s important to constantly evaluate the way you communicate with others.

Source: Raphael Caixeta is a PHP and iOS developer and co-founder of Grip’d. He likes to blog about web and iOS development at raphaelcaixeta.com.