Customer service is the lifeblood of any successful business. However small businesses have extra incentive to offer quality service as it could be the difference between retaining or losing a client. What are some ways that smaller companies can provide the best possible experience for their patrons?
1. Always Be Available
One of the ways that small businesses can differentiate themselves from the competition is by always being available to customers. For instance, you could have a phone on standby to answer calls or respond to email messages. It may also be a good idea to regularly check your social media feed to check for messages from customers who have questions or concerns. You can find more resources and information from the Thinking Capital website.
2. Seek Customer Feedback
Customers love when you listen to what they have to say. This shows that you care about their needs and are striving to be the best product or service provider in town. In some cases, merely taking the time to accept negative feedback will make it easier to resolve a bad situation.
This is because it will allow the individual to calm down and listen to reason as opposed to reacting in a purely emotional manner. By seeking out the advice of your patrons, you can gain valuable insights into what the business is doing right or wrong. At the same time, you are building strong relationships with people who will become loyal to your brand.
3. Reward Your Loyal Customers
If you notice that a person regularly comes into your store, don’t be afraid to reward that person for his or her business. The same is true for those who routinely order a service package or subscription for whatever your business offers. These people are the ones who can act as brand ambassadors if you treat them with respect. Part of being respectful is offering free or discounted products or inviting them to a special event each year.
4. Never Say No to a Customer
Unless you are putting the health or safety of yourself or an employee at risk, you should strive to never tell a customer that you can’t do something. This is true even if it means staying open late or spending extra time trying to locate a product in another city, state or country. By putting in that extra work, you will make your customers proud to do business with your brand.
Customers who are treated well are more likely to continue doing business with your company. Those who are not treated well are less likely to do so. Furthermore, they may be more likely to tell others about their experience. Therefore, it is critical to treat people well if you want your company to thrive.
