Amy,
These are all wonderful elements of memorable customer service. How do you think this translates to personally developed inquiries?
Dr. Jean Norris
To me, memorable customer service reflects a person's or organization's genuine way of "being" and relating that is seamless and that translates through every interaction with customers. It's about being present, listening, being able to see things from your clients' perspectives, anticipating their needs and wanting to exceed those needs and expectations, even offering them things they may not have considered. When customer service becomes a mission where the focus is 100% on customers and their real and perceived needs, it can foster true customer appreciation for having been seen, heard, considered, and supported. And when people feel they matter, they will become loyal customers and ambassadors. In essence, superior customer service is the cornerstone of every successful business. It's always in the forefront of everything I do, it does make a difference, and it makes me feel good to support others in this way.
Being responsive to a customers needs quickly, effectively and consistently. This confirms to our students that their concerns and needs are important and deserve our attention, which coupled with the quality of our curriculum, develops the positive interaction we strive to attain with all our students.
I believe that listening to the customer is key to giving the best customer service. If we listen, we can then help the customer in a more efficient manner.
My definition of customer service is doing what it takes to put a smile on the customers face. It's not easy to please everyone and let's face it, you won't. I think customers appreciate those employees who can get the job done for them but, I think it's what they did and how much effort they put in along the way that makes them appreciate the employees more.
Most smiles are started by another smile, so it's a great way to deliver great customer service and maybe even get a smile in return.
Customer service is being able to give good service to a customer or student with a smile and given them the help that they need.
Customer service in my position means the ability to listen and present materials to students, parents and colleagues in a way they understand. As some may agree, financial aid may be a completely foreign language to some that one explanation does not always work with all.
I believe customer service is assuring that our customers (being our student) are beyond satisfied with their not only their education at our school but their time spent at our school as well as their interactions with any of our staff and faculty. The students are such an important part of our business; we wouldn't exist with out them. It's our job to make sure that they are happy with their education and will tell others about our school.
On another not I love what was said below "treat others like we want to be treated" I couldn't agree more!
Jessica, that's an interesting perspective. I wonder, what about a customer who comes to your place of business for the first time?
Dr. Jean Norris
Customer service is a self explanatory term, you provide a service to an individual who is a frequent customer or in other words spends money in your business or institution. They bring revenue and other clients. Treat them well and you will have a successful business.
Listening is a very powerful tool along with asking meaningful questions. You're right, if you take the time to listen with your ears, eyes and heart - you will better understand what information you need to provide. And yes, follow up is SO important. Thanks for your post!
Agreed that the golden rule pretty much always applies. In addition, I find that if I just listen when I meet with prospective or current students they will tell me what they need either directly or indirectly. Regardless of why I'm meeting with a student, if I pay attention, they will point me in the direction of how to help them. Then, delivering what they need is usually simple. Of course, timely follow up is key.
Thank you so much for sharing, Therese! How do you help your students feel valuable and respected? Others feel free to post your ideas as well.
As another forum member has commented, the Golden Rule really does apply here - treat others as you would have them treat you. Customer service means letting the customer see that you will always go the extra mile for them because they aer very valuable to you. People should feel that they have some "status" when they come into your place of business or your school - they should be warmly received and their needs recognized. They should never have to fight for respect or attention and should be made to feel very "at home".
Customer service is servicing your client to thier total needs. Making sure they are satisfied with anything you do...
Great Corinna! And how do you know when you are providing your customers with the best possible service?
The Coustomer is always right...they pay your bills and if it wasn't for them you wouldn't have a job. My name is on their service so I will alwasys provide the best possible serive.
K.C.,that's a wonderful definition. Thanks for sharing.
Dr. Jean Norris
This to me means treating every individual (student) as if they are the most important person at that moment. Every one would like to be acknowledged and see that their needs are met. It is everyone's responsibility because we represent the company we work for, and our customers are our voice in the community.
