Since every business relies on its customers for success, customer service is arguably one of the most important aspects of running a healthy company. But how can you improve your customer service if you don’t have a huge budget to do an overhaul? It’s easier than you might think. Here are five easy ideas you should consider implementing:
- Saying “Thank You” Every Single Time
This is about as simple as it gets: Remember to say thank you. Customers like to feel appreciated in various ways, but just verbally telling them how much you appreciate their business is a great start.
- A Tiered Service System
If you’re trying to provide great service while keeping your costs low, then you might want to consider a tiered service system. Essentially, these programs work to ensure that the people who are bringing the most revenue to your business are kept happy. That doesn’t mean you should ignore lower-level customers or make them feel like second-class citizens, of course, merely that you should focus your efforts a little more carefully.
- A Comprehensive Online FAQ Section
A few recent studies have shown that consumers like being able to resolve things themselves. One of the best ways you can facilitate that process is by building an intuitively organized FAQ section on your website. People will be much happier if they don’t have to jump through hoops to find basic information like your hours, pricing, returns policy, etc.
- Being Human and Relatable
Especially if you’re moving some of your customer service offerings to the Internet, it’s important you make an effort to be personable and relatable. Social media is a great medium for connecting to your customers in this way. You’ll probably also find that forging those more personal connections will make your customers more likely to forgive your business’ shortcomings when something falls through the cracks.
- After Hours Telephone Answering Services
Despite emerging channels, consumers indicate time and time again that reaching a live person on the phone is still their preferred customer service channel — and nothing is more frustrating for customers than when they keep calling only to find they’ve missed you. Paying for after hours telephone answering services is a simple way to cut down on the frustration customers feel when they can’t call between 9 and 5, and you’ll likely bring in or retain enough business to account for the additional cost. Keep in mind that while some after hours telephone answering services are 24-hour, others will let you schedule just a few hours before and after closing if that’s all you need.
How else can businesses improve customer service without breaking the bank? Share your ideas in the comments.