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09/14/2023

The Customer Service Crash Course

By SR Max

The Customer Service Crash Course

Whether you're a 16-year-old starting your first job as a grocery store cashier or a sales team veteran, a customer service refresher is never a bad thing. Working with the public can be challenging at times. Maybe a customer is just having a bad day, or maybe they do have a legitimate frustration with a part of the process that we could learn from if we are open-minded and ready to listen. So have a seat because class is in session! Let's go through the steps to becoming a customer service pro. 

You'll need some patience

In a perfect world, we'd be able to meet all customer needs at all times. Unfortunately, we live in the real world, so customers are going to have frustrations at times. When these cases arise, all that you can do is remain calm and work with the customer to fix the issue. And if the customer becomes argumentative, never fight back. If you cannot fix the issue for whatever reason, refer the customer to your superior to work something out. The customer service industry isn't for everyone. If you don't take being yelled at or criticized by strangers very well, then this may not be for you. It takes a lot of self-control, patience, and some thick skin to make it through some days. Just remember to try and use positive language, stay cheerful no matter what, and always attempt to satisfy the customer. 

A strong work ethic is required

Customer service means long days on your feet or on the phone and a lot of interactions with customers. While you'll be seeing or talking to dozens of customers throughout the day, their interaction with you is likely their only interaction with the company. Therefore, you need to be constantly on your game and ready to meet a customer's needs at all times. You won't be able to afford any slacking off time. One bad customer experience can lead to a store complaint or a bad review online. So while some days feel longer than others, always remember to keep your work ethic up, stay positive, and be there for every single customer that you come into contact with.

You'd better know what you're sellingI

It is ALWAYS your responsibility in any type of customer service field to be knowledgeable about the products that you carry. A lot of customers have questions before they make a purchase, so you should spend some time getting comfortable with the products that you sell. However, if you really don't know the answer to a customer's question, it's okay to say that you don't know! Most customers will understand, but you should immediately find someone who does know the answer rather than just leaving the customer to fend for themselves. And I don't know is not a permanent solution. If this is your go-to answer for all questions, customers will begin to notice and get upset, so remember to keep the customer in mind and learn as much as you can about your particular business. 

In conclusion...

The customer service field is all about catering to customer needs and keeping them happy. It requires patience, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to being knowledgeable about your particular industry. Customer Service jobs can be a lot of fun if you're a people person, and most customers can be really enjoyable to interact with. Class dismissed! Looking for more helpful tips for your industry? Learn more at www.srmax.com !  

Categories: Company Information  |  Authored by: SR Max  |  Posted: 09/14/2023