The KPI and Personalization Conundrum: ?? Obsessing Over Numbers That Don’t Matter
C. Pete Connor MS, CCCM
CX Operations Executive | Creator of MindMeld GPT | Data Driven VOC Strategy & AI Insights | SQL Python & Data Visualization | Reducing Churn & Boosting NPS to Drive Growth | Creator of MindMeld GPT | AI Innovator
So, here we are again—chasing metrics like AHT (Average Handle Time) and NPS (Net Promoter Score) like they’re the holy grail of customer loyalty.
Spoiler alert: they’re not.
Let’s talk about how we’ve all been duped into thinking faster calls and higher scores are what customers actually care about. Hint: They don’t.
?? Data Insights on Brand Loyalty
?? Prevalence of Loyalty:
1?? 72% of global customers and 80% of American consumers are loyal to at least one brand.
2?? 59% of U.S. consumers stay loyal for life once committed to a brand.
?? What Drives Loyalty?
1?? Price: 62% of global customers value competitive pricing.
2?? Customer Service: 83% of U.S. consumers rate good customer service as the top factor for loyalty.
3?? Product Quality: 74% prioritize product quality.
4?? Personalization: 75% of U.S. consumers want brands to "get" them, yet only 27% of global consumers rate it as critical.
5?? Values: 89% of U.S. consumers stick with brands that share their values.
?? Loyalty Programs Matter
1?? 70% of U.S. consumers prefer brands with loyalty programs.
2?? The average American belongs to 16.7 programs.
?? Gen Z Loyalty Trends
?? 57% report decreased loyalty since the pandemic but are more engaged in loyalty programs and social media.
Speed Over Substance? Yeah, No.
1?? Call centers love to brag about how fast they can handle a call.
2?? Great, you’re fast. But did you actually solve the problem? Or did you just rush a frustrated customer off the phone?
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Ultimate Actionable Takeaways
? Stop obsessing over how fast you’re going and focus on where you’re going.
? Build loyalty by being there when it counts, personalizing the moments that matter, and giving people a reason to come back.
?? Because in the end, loyalty beats speed every time.
1?? ? NPS: Overhyped but Lacking Depth NPS tracks loyalty, but if you’re chasing numbers without memorable experiences, it’s meaningless. Focus on connection, not just score.
?? Actionable: Make sure they want to recommend you before asking.
2?? ?? Personalization: You’re Doing It Wrong Sprinkling names into emails isn’t true personalization. Customers want brands to understand them, not gimmicky name-dropping.
?? Actionable: Personalize the moments that matter, not every email.
3?? ?? KPIs: Focus on First Call Resolution Efficiency is great, but First Call Resolution (FCR) keeps customers happy. Solve problems once; avoid phone tag.
?? Actionable : FCR > AHT. Solve it the first time or risk losing them.
4?? ?? Loyalty Programs: Bribery Works Loyalty programs keep customers coming back—93% redeem rewards. Hand out points like candy; it works.
?? Actionable : Think of it as bribery—but for grown-ups. You give rewards, they stay.
5???? Trust and Transparency: Don’t Be Shady 96% say great service builds trust, and 82% will recommend you for it. Don’t hide behind policies; be clear and honest.
?? Actionable : Stop being shady. Treat customers like humans, not numbers.
Final Thoughts: Stop Chasing the Wrong Goals
If you’re all about vanity metrics like NPS or trying to break call speed records, you’re doing it wrong.
Loyalty isn’t earned by being the fastest; it’s earned by being the best. And by the way, 63% of customers say they’ll pay more for brands they’re loyal to.
So stop cutting corners. Build loyalty, deliver value, and make customers actually want to stick around.
?? Takeaway: Personalization, consistent service, and shared values drive brand loyalty in today's competitive market.
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