Quick Customer Service Tips

I really wanted to call this customer service for dummies but the name was already taken and I wanted to start off on the right foot and not assume this information was a no brainer.  Fighting the temptation over the title, I have put together some basic customer service tips that can help you in whatever career your are currently in whether it is in sales or warehouse work.  Over the years I have worked in both with a lot of stops in between and one thing that I have found is good customer service techniques can help you with customers and bosses no matter your situation.   Below are some quick, common things to remember.

Tip # 1 - Try and make a good first impression

The most important aspect to remember in making a good first impression is your appearance. An unpleasant appearance can cause a road block for customers to form a good first impression. You may have to sacrifice your personal style to please others, but your appearance at work needs to fit your business. Otherwise, you may have to work harder for people to become comfortable with you. Things to remember: be well groomed, wear appropriate clothing, and be relaxed with your body language. 

Tip # 2 - Be courteous  

Even if you make a good first impression you can turn people off by being rude.  It is always important to be courteous.  When you say things like "please" and "thank you" people are more adapt to want to be around you and in sales that is a good thing.  Also, using a person's name when you know it is a good habit to get in whether it is their last name or first name in some cases.  If you don't know their name a "Sir" or "Ma'am" is a good route to take.  Things to remember: don't interrupt when someone is speaking, use a proper name or substitute when addressing someone, and smile.

Tip # 3 - Have a great attitude

Having a great attitude relates to how you feel about your work and how you approach your work. Just like being courteous can make people want to be around you, so can having a great attitude.  Customers and bosses will feel you take pride in your work if you show a positive attitude when dealing with them.  Let's face it, some people just hate their jobs.  The thing is, it shows.  If you can find a way to change your attitude towards your job you may be amazed on how much better your job seems.  If you can't change your attitude towards your job, the best thing to do is try and find a job you can feel good about.  Things to remember: be professional, do be a skeptic without your own solutions, and again, smile! 

Try it out! Incorporate the tips from above and see if the people around you notice the difference. 

Written by Nick Phillips