HOW TO IMPRESS YOUR CUSTOMERS LIKE A BOSS (Even when the budget is tight).

You would like your organization to have a stream of return customers.

But you don't have a big budget.

You believe that you need to spend a lot of money to impress.

You believe that you need to overhaul your whole establishment to make it stand out.

You believe you need to rebrand and have a "New and improved"?version of your organization to make it memorable.

You believe that you need to give your customers lots of takeaway gifts for them to remember you by.

But what if I told you that all that is important, but there are easier, cost-effective ways that are easy to implement??

That money can buy you nice things but giving amazing customer service does not have to break the bank.

That it's the small things that can create an amazing experience for your customers and make them come back again and again.

That you and your staff already have it in you to wow!

I'm talking about soft skills.

Skills that you are born with and that you just need to hone in on.

Let's dive into what this looks like:?

IT'S ALL IN THE FIRST IMPRESSIONS

We all know how important those initial moments are when it comes to leaving a lasting positive impression.?

In today's fast-paced world, they say you only get 7 seconds to impress.

That's right.

Just 7 seconds and maybe less.?

So here are a few tips to help you rock that first interaction with your customers so you can retain them with ease.?

1. Speak with your body:

Your body language says it all.

Non-verbal cues can speak louder than words.?

An open and approachable posture does wonders — stand or sit up straight, keep your arms uncrossed, and maintain a friendly facial expression.?

Your body language should say, "I appreciate your business".

2. "Do" listening:?

Listening is a verb.

So "do" listening.

It is the key to understanding your customers and their needs.?

It is the secret sauce.

So when engaging with customers, show that you are listening by: maintaining eye contact, nodding to show you're actively listening, and asking relevant questions to gain a better understanding.?

Listening will make your customers feel valued.?

3. Make them feel human:

Customers are not a one size fits all.

Each customer who walks through your doors is unique.

So treat them as such.

Use their names if you know them, and recall any previous interactions or preferences.

This goes a long way in creating a connection with them.

4. Be a pro:?

Nothing is more frustrating to a customer than not getting the answers they seek.

So be well-versed in your products, services, and company policies. It will make you come across as professional, and customers appreciate that.

PS: If you don't have an immediate answer, don't lie. Be proactive in finding a solution and follow through pronto.

5. Value their time:

Efficiency is key, and time is valuable.

So be efficient in attending to customers' requests.

Long wait times can create a negative first impression.

PS: When it comes to emails, a wait of longer than 48 hours to get a response is far too long, so apply the 48-hour rule and stick to it.?

6. Appreciate them – it's the cherry on top:

Customer service does not end the moment a customer walks out.

Purpose to follow up and show your appreciation.

A simple thank you note, a personalized email, or even a thank you card can go a long way in solidifying their already amazing experience with you.

Let them know that they are genuinely valued and that you look forward to serving them again in the not-too-distant future.

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT

Imagine not having to break the bank to create an amazing experience.

Imagine using what you already have to WOW your customers.

Using your God-given special gifts to make everyone who interacts with your organization feel valued.

Knowing that you already have what it takes.

And smiling every time a customer comes back.

Because, as they say, it costs more to win a new customer than to retain an old one.

So do what you can to retain the customers you already have.

And the evangelism you build in them will be priceless.?

Want customer service training for your staff to turn them into customer service superstars??Click here?to book a call, and let's talk.

We have a range of training programs, from half-day workshops to intensive two-day full-immersion trainings. They are perfect for organisations that believe that people are the secret sauce that makes an organisation succeed.?

Subscribe to this newsletter for more tips on self-care for customer-facing staff and all things customer service, customer experience and customer experience management.?