attitude January 4th, 2008
Next time you find yourself face to face with a complaining customer, you might like to try these simple techniques
1. Make immediate eye contact and give the customer your full undivided attention.
2. Speak calmly, slowly and show sincere care and consideration.
3. Use the persons name often and personalise the communication by using the words I instead of we, I understand how you must feel at this point.
4. Listen actively, nod often and show empathy.
5. Ask questions to confirm what is being said.
6. Ensure you hear the customer out completely before offering a solution.
7. Offer the solution that is in the customers favour, remembering that your most important goal is to preserve the business relationship.
8. If the solution is not satisfactory to the customer, then ask what is it that you can do for them that is fair for the both of you.
9. Follow up to see that any arrangements have been made.
10. Thank the customer for the opportunity to solve their complaint.