Years ago, many companies lived by a “once a customer, always a customer” philosophy. However, in today’s competitive business world full of endless choices and tempting opportunities, customers can be easily lured to a competitor even if they’re happy with your products or services. Here are a few tips to help you show inactive customers […]
Category Archives: Customer Service
Things to Avoid Saying to a Customer
A big part of customer service excellence is saying the right thing to customers. Here are a few phrases to avoid, since they may cause you to lose a sale…and possibly even a customer: “That’s our policy.” This is a frustrating response that’s aimed at shutting down conversation and shows no interest in customer satisfaction. […]
Complaints: Problem Solvers in Disguise
While it’s hard to think of customer complaints as a good thing, most of them are actually great problem-solving tools for your business. Valid complaints expose problems that cost your business time and money. With that in mind, here are a few ways to deal with and learn from customer complaints: Offer several convenient ways […]
7 Secrets to Customer-Focused Marketing
Mahatma Gandhi once said, “A customer is the most important visitor on our premises. He is not dependent on us. We are dependent on him. He is not an interruption in our work. He is the purpose of it. He is not an outsider in our business. He is part of it. We are not […]
10 Simple Ways Make it Easier for Customers to Contact You
A toll-free number is no longer the standard way for customers to contact you. Customers are bombarded with choices in today’s technology-focused world. If your business doesn’t offer a method of communication that suits your customers’ preferences, they may find another company that does. Here are 10 tips to make it easy for ALL of […]
9 Ways to Increase Customer Retention
Experts say it costs five times more to attract a new customer than to retain an existing one. Consequently, customer retention is critical to the success of your business. Here are a few tips to help you stay in front of your customers and increase your customer retention rates: Develop a customer loyalty program that […]
Six Steps to Handling Mistakes at Work
Mistakes are a natural part of life… and business. How you handle those mistakes will go a long way in turning a dissatisfied customer around. Here are a few things you can do when mistakes occur at your company to help resolve the issue and make sure it doesn’t happen again: Acknowledge the mistake. When […]
Turn Callers Into Customers with Messaging On Hold
Think about the last time you called a business and were put on hold. Dead air can make a 30-second wait feel like forever. The majority of callers will hang up if they feel like they’ve been on hold too long, and many of them will never call back. On-hold messaging is a great way […]
Sweet Treats = Sweet Deals
Are you looking for a unique way to create a memorable atmosphere for your customers and prospects? Consider offering refreshments at your business on an everyday basis. Something as simple as coffee, lemonade, and cookies will encourage visitors to stop and chat while they enjoy a tasty treat. (By the way, cookies are even more […]
The Positive Side of Negative Reviews
Does your business offer an outlet to post or share customer reviews, good and bad alike? Many businesses cringe at the thought of sharing negative customer reviews, thinking they may taint their image or scare away business. However, negative reviews can be good for business. Negative feedback provides credibility and tells customers the business is […]