Service with a Smile

Customer service is the heartbeat of any restaurant, retail store chain, or any service-related business. Not only is it the life's blood, but customer service also builds necessary people skills to deal with people at all levels of life in general. The sales associates, service personnel, and wait staffs learn early on one central hinging statement: "The Customer is Always Right!" This simple, little phrase, encourages consumers to frequent those businesses who demonstrate quality dealings in this vital area.

But, how does someone achieve success in the area of customer service? I believe there are several key strategies that improve client/associate relations.

First, follow your company's guidelines for dealing with the public. Understanding the rules of the organization a person works for, is key to making customers into long-time friends and patrons.

Listen and build relationships. The customer or client has a specific need, in which they come to your place of business to get that need fulfilled. Anything from auto parts to food, it is the duty of the associate, agent, or business owner to get results. By understanding those needs, the business and the patron have a chance at building a long-term relationship.

Give a little extra with a smile. Adding a freebie or something that says, "We appreciate your business", keeps your customer coming back. In most cases, that little extra something, reminds them of the experiences at your business. This includes making the customer feel appreciated at all levels of relations. And remember; a friendly smile has the potential of disarming the grouchy patron walking in the front door.

Do your part, to keep the business looking business ready. Straighten merchandise, clean fixtures, vacuum carpets and floors, even running a dust mop helps in all facets of impression. Make sure your customer dressing/restrooms remain ready at all times. Having available facilities like these, breeds confidence from your clients.

Keep a cool head. Remaining calm at all times, even with extremely difficult customers, can make or break a sale or returning business. There are times when intervention of a manager or a business owner is needed to diffuse a hostile moment. In some cases, the would-be patron will receive an apology from everyone, or he will be escorted off the premises without further incident.

With millions of employees, associates, and service people working in customer service-related professions, the ability to perform customer service duties make or break a business.