How to Improve Customer Service- 11 Tips

How To Improve Customer Service December 09, 2020

Jin Hyun

Writer

The quality of customer service has a significant impact on the revenue and growth of a business. In fact, one study found that 96% of shoppers would switch brands over poor customer service.

Low levels of customer satisfaction almost always lead to problems such as shrinking customer retention and loyalty rates. Research also shows that it costs businesses five times more to attract a new customer than to retain an existing one. By improving customer service, businesses can effectively create long-lasting customer relationships while also reaching out to new audiences.

Tips to Improve Customer Service

There are many unique strategies businesses can employ to enhance customer service. This includes creating memorable experiences for shoppers, expanding customer support, creating an irresistible offer, and encouraging feedback.

Provide Unique Customer Experiences

Brand loyalty is developed over time and can be cultivated by providing unique customer experiences. Companies can show customers they care by providing excellent service. Simple ways to accomplish this include-

1. Use the Customer's Name When Communicating With Them

This includes over the phone as well as through emails. Using a customer's name creates a more friendly and familiar tone.

2. Personalize Messages

When a customer buys something from a company, a personalized message can take the onboarding process to a new level. Relying on an automated response may seem like an easier way to communicate with customers and prospects. However, a customer is more likely to make future purchases if a company uses a personal touch.

3. Offer Incentives and Rewards

Customers love personalized experiences from businesses, making this one of the best ways to build brand loyalty. Having a loyalty program not only keeps customers coming back but it can also provide companies with valuable information. This consumer data can be used to enhance the personalization of future offers and marketing campaigns.

Offer Quick and Efficient Support

Customers who find issues with the product or service expect to get a response quickly. As attention spans continue to shrink, the willingness of customers to wait for their issues to be resolved is also dwindling.

Moreover, busy schedules mean that customers may simply not have the time to wait. The reality is that being slow to respond reflects badly on a company. However, there are several ways that an organization can improve its customer service response time-

4. Omnichannel Support

Businesses should have several ways for customers to get in touch with them. Companies need more than a phone number or email address to offer a great customer experience. Businesses should also offer social media support and live chat support. Having omnichannel support allows customers to get an answer to their problem or question quickly from a qualified service representative.

5. Have Self-Help Options

Some customers will prefer to find the answers to their queries themselves. This is why businesses should also offer self-help options such as FAQ web pages or chatbots on the company website.

Create a Tempting Offer

Some companies may be concerned that offering discounts or deals may hurt their bottom line. The reality is that creating a tempting offer can help customers overcome their purchasing anxiety. Here are some ways to create an offer that customers won't be able to resist.

6. Have a Clear Refund Policy

A money-back guarantee can help increase the trust that customers have in a brand. Moreover, it can help to make the purchase experience less risky, which means more customers will be comfortable buying a product or service. Therefore, having a clear refund policy can be a powerful incentive.

7. Offer a Trial Period

Offering a free trial can help consumers overcome their concerns about buyer's remorse. This has worked well for SaaS businesses offering free software trials.

However, there are some best practices about free trials that companies should follow, such as not asking for credit card details, allowing consumers to sign up with their social media accounts for ease of use, and allowing consumers to experience the full value of the product or service.

8. Create a Discount Code

Giving a discount is another great incentive for consumers. For example, businesses can clearly display a first-time buyer discount code on their website. Businesses can also send out monthly discount codes via email.

Make Feedback Part of Your Brand

Feedback is a vital asset to any business. This information helps to gather valuable insight into customer satisfaction levels and the strengths of the company's products and services. In addition, consumers will see that their opinions are valued by the business.

9. Seek Customer Feedback

Be proactive in seeking out customer feedback. This can be done by sending out a survey following a purchase or through social media polls.

10. Share Feedback Internally

Customer feedback should be shared with others in the business, including management. Regularly reviewing customer feedback and pinpointing the main suggestions can be a great company exercise.

11. Respond to Feedback

Whether customers leave a positive or negative review, it is in the best interest of a business to respond to the feedback. This demonstrates to the customer and other shoppers that the business cares about delivering value.

The strength and growth of a business depend heavily on the quality of customer service. Studies have shown that brands committed to offering their customers the best care cultivate loyal customers for the long term.