In a world filled with customer-focused, service-related careers, it’s amazing how often we forget just how much our lifestyle
So, avoid the awkwardness (is that even a word?!) entirely and check out my easy-to-follow guidelines.
#1 Don’t have unrealistic expectations.
Most services are specifically defined (even if you have to get out the magnifying glass to read the fine print!). By understanding ahead of time exactly what your purchase includes, you avoid setting yourself, and your service professional, up for failure.
#2 Don’t be distracted or late.
Very few of us are mind-readers, right?! So, why do we expect other people, especially our service professionals, to know exactly what we want when we aren’t even paying attention or we’re late?
(Temporarily, of course), get off your phone, cease your conversation, control your kids, and stop anything that may distract you initially so both you, and your server, bartender, massage therapist, or whoever can get on the same page and get started (on time!) with your service.
Also, no one likes to wait so be respectful of everyone’s time. For instance, if you’re running late, call to let your service professional know. And, if you are habitually late, 1) you probably need to work on that, and 2) set an alarm or ask a more time-conscious friend to join or remind you.
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#3 Don’t be demanding.
It’s true, if you never ask, the answer will always be no. But, don’t automatically expect your service professional to accommodate your every whim.
Most services specifically outline what they include. If they don’t, or you have a special request, ask (politely, please!). Just be prepared to pay for additional services that go beyond your original purchase.
#4 Don’t be rude or disrespectful.
Remember please and thank you? These phrases still exist (even if they are no longer taught in grade school!). And, most people, especially service professionals, still appreciate them.
Furthermore, mistakes do happen and are usually unexpected and unintentional. Acknowledge it and . . . move on! Complaining incessantly, especially with the motive of getting something in return, serves no one and makes an unpleasant situation even worse.
Life is a mirror. What you give is what you receive. Click To Tweet#5 Don’t forget to show your gratitude.
Following up on minding your manners, in most countries, it is customary to show your gratitude and tip for a job well done. Obviously, gratuity amounts or percentages vary from service types to locations, and should reflect your own personal experience. But, it’s best not to assume gratuity is included in your original purchase price.
If you aren’t sure, just ask. But, if you’re uncomfortable asking your service professional directly, be
#6 Don’t have an attitude.
Have you ever heard, your outer world reflects your inner world? Or, life is a mirror; what you give is what you receive? Well, both are true! And, this includes your energy, feelings, emotions, even facial expressions! So, why not put your best foot forward and start off every interaction with a smile and kind word?!
Come on, don’t be shy; show us those pearly whites! 😉
#7 Don’t treat anyone like a servant.
Finally, service does not equal servant. I repeat, service does not equal servant.
Most service professionals have loads of experience (and often education!) for their career. They are professionals at what they do and should be treated as such. Anyway, do you really think you’ll get an excellent service experience if you treat them poorly?
I would love to know your thoughts!
What are your best tips to get great customer service each and every time? Drop your comments below.
P.S. Want to make sure your server, bartender, or even flight attendant never, ever
Yes, great list. I never expect things, but I will be honest about my feelings. But I stay kind, and normally I do get something for free because I don’t flip out.
Amber Myers recently posted…Hollywood & Vine Halloween Dine Fantasmic Package At Hollywood Studios Review
Honesty is important, and isn’t a problem as long as the information is presented in an informative, non-defensive manner.
So much of this lands under the category of manners. It’s amazing that this needs to stated, but as someone who spent years in customer service… people definitely could use the reminder!
Yes. I completely agree.
Having an attitude and being rude really doesn’t help at all and only leads to bad reviews.These are really great tips.
I agree. It only causes more problems in the long run.
Great points. I think everyone should work in customer service for at least a short while so they can appreciate what it’s like being on the other side of the counter. A smile and politeness certainly goes a long way
I agree! Customer service experience would definitely be helpful to keep expectations in check and basic manners are the top of mind.
YASSSS! Say it louder for the people in the back!!! This is a post that many will need to see and hear and run with! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you! Share, share, share! I’m directing everyone I know to it just to spread the word. If nothing else, it’s a great reminder. 🙂
For me, it’s always ‘do not do unto others what you do not want to be done to you.’ Thus, don’t be rude to anyone, ’cause who likes rude people (or customers)? Great post!
Erika Ramona recently posted…Siargao, Surigao del Norte
I’m the same way! Honor the golden rule and always get great service because you’re a great customer!
As someone who was raised in a customer service family and who worked in customer service, I can truly appreciate these tips!
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I felt this article was needed after working with large travel groups and experiencing this first hand. Thanks!
There is always some person who expects that something be free because they are owed it an it’s embarrassing to be around them. It’s one thing to check a food order, it’s another thing to micromanage the whole thing or to guffaws. These are great tips and really, they should be just plain obvious because they’re basic manners, but I think many people have forgotten them.
I agree. Manners are not common sense anymore. And, expectations are somewhat out of control, especially when most service offerings are standardized.
Don’t over expect and rude are vital tips for receiving excellent service. People should be realistic and behave appropriately.
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Exactly!
Sp true. This list includes everything that should not be done when you are expecting great customer service. You give what you receive. I wouldn’t want to have to deal with someone rude. I’ve seen so many people assume they deserve it all and treating customer service so rudely. It’s bad manners.
Yes, it’s so sad that any of this needs to be put out there, but apparently, it is no longer common sense.
I don’t like it when people gets too demanding whenever dealing with customer service representatives. I think you have all listed the known facts about it. #4 hits the spot.
Yeah, I can see how some of these might affect service. No one wants to be treated like a servant, for sure.
This is great advice. I’ll admit, I’ve wanted to storm across the room and teach people some manners a few times. I can’t stand it when people mistreat their servers, checkout persons, etc. Especially when the service person is elderly and the customer is a teenager. Makes me so mad! What has happened to respect for others? (Stepping off soapbox.)
These are some great tips! In this new era, we all tend to expect too much, for less money.
Having worked in retail and customer service, I know how hard it can be for people doing those jobs so I always try to make it as easy for them as possible. Being nice, patient and all even when I am pissed.
Yes these are great points you are right we need to treat them nicely so they can do their job.