How to Give Better Customer Service 1-2-3
courtesy of Sean Cohen
The future of customer service is here. Technology has made seeking out support faster and easier than ever.
But, has your digital age company sacrificed true service in the name of automation?
Today, finding customer support is as simple as writing an e-mail or picking up the phone. But, even though
you're not face-to-face with your customers, you still leave a lasting impression. Do you come across as caring
and competent, or menacing and mechanical?
Offering stand-out service on the Internet isn't as hard as it is rare. Take these simple steps towards
old-style service in the digital age:
- Give Each Customer a Personal Response
- Be Clear, But Sincere
- Offer Live Customer Support
- Make Sure Your Support Reps Have All the Answers
Give Each Customer a Personal Response
When a customer sits down to e-mail your company, it's because he needs help. He chooses e-mail because it's
quick, but his request still warrants a satisfying and personal response!
Companies eager to save time and money often take automation too far in their customer support. Each
customer has a unique question, and deserves a unique answer. Even if you save time by copying and pasting
stock replies, change the opening and closing to make the message sound less robotic.
Be Clear, But Sincere
When responding to customers' e-mail, be sincere and to the point. Before sending a message, try turning the
tables. Ask yourself, "Would this answer satisfy me if I were the customer?"
Take that extra moment to give your customer the help he deserves. It might mean the difference between a
satisfied customer and a credit card chargeback!
Offer Live Customer Support
E-mail has become an acceptable form of communication. But, live customer support is still necessary. The
plethora of information available online can be overwhelming to customers, especially those new to the
Internet!
Single your company out from the crowd by providing customers with a real person to talk to. Live phone
support is an invaluable way to foster trust. When your customer has reached the end of his Internet rope, and
just needs help, your toll free number is the answer he's looking for.
Make Sure Your Support Reps Have All The Answers
The presence of phone support will do no good if your staff doesn't know your product! Customer support reps
should be warm and friendly, and willing to help with any aspect of your product.
What a good feeling it is to talk to someone who feels confident in his product. It's even better if he's
knowledgeable enough to solve your problem without transferring you all around the company!
Provide Stand-Out Service; Gain Lifelong Customers
Too many e-businesses skimp on customer service, hiding behind web sites and message boards. Customer
support is an integral part of every company, even those operating solely online. Be one of the few to offer
stellar service, and gain customers for life!
Find out how you can increase your sales by 35% with an easy customer service tool: http://aweber.com
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