Four Simple Customer Service Steps

Customer service is always important in your business, but becomes critical when the economy is down--when standing out from your competition could be the key to keeping your business afloat.

What steps are you taking to encourage repeat customers when companies everywhere are slashing prices in order to generate a sale? What have you implemented for your customers who have been loyal to you to show your appreciation of their support over the years?

Start off by listening to your customers. What do they want/need and how do your products or services help them with this? Be sure to listen to their complaints as well and more importantly, take action to address the complaint. By not turning your head and ignoring the situation, taking action toward fixing the problem, even if not immediate, will earn a customer's respect and repeat business.

Stick to the basics. Have a friendly, approachable, outgoing, "can-do" attitude staff who is educated about the products/services you're selling. If a customer walks into your store and does not receive the help they need, or feel as though the employee does not want to help them, they will take their business elsewhere.

Go the extra mile. Taking the time to fix something that takes only a few minutes of your time and not charging the customer for your service not only keeps them happy, but will also help earn the business of their friends, family and co-workers after they rave about your business going above and beyond the call of duty.

Offer customer reward or loyalty programs. These programs not only guarantee repeat business, but helps customers who have been coming to you for years feel appreciated. Handing out coupons for future purchases or small freebies may not seem like a big deal to you, but in the customer's eyes makes them feel appreciated and gets them back in your store.

Applying these simple, yet crucial components to your business not only enhances your reputation within your community and makes you stand out from your competitors, but will also increase your sales and may give you the edge over your competitors in any economy.