How to  Build Your Home Business Offering Superior Service

One of the biggest complaints customers have against businesses, large and small, is "lousy customer service".     We have all had the experience of being left hanging on the phone while just trying to get some simple information or waiting to hear the voice of a live person who can answer a few questions. Recently, I called the U.S. postal service on a working day to see if I could get some information on sending a package to the U.K. Believe it or not, I got a voice mail message telling me to leave my name and phone number and someone would call me back.     I COULDN’T believe it! I was out-done and flabbergasted! You mean to tell me that a gigantic operation like the U.S. postal service can’t afford to hire enough people to answer the phones on a regular working day?     A few weeks ago, I ordered some information from a small mail-order company. The order information said that if I sent a check, my order would be delayed until the check cleared. So I sent cash ($16.00). I still hadn’t gotten the order for three weeks. When I got the order, it was only three pages of information. I don’t know how you see it, but I call this poor customer service. What's the problem?         Why do there seem to be so many companies that don’t have a clue when it comes to serving their customers? Why is it that large businesses, such as airlines, hotels, car rental companies, etc., make their customers jump through hoops just to use their services?     Perhaps some of the companies have grown so big that they think the public has no choice but to do business with them. Whatever the reasons may be, poor customer service is bad for business.     I could go on and on, giving examples of my experiences of poor customer service. But I’m sure you too could tell poor customer service stories of your own.     The point is, when we spend our money to purchase a product or service, we all feel that our business should be appreciated. In most cases, when we receive poor customer service, we simply take our business elsewhere.     Give your customers the service they deserve.     The small business owner must do everything possible to gain an advantage that will help him obtain loyal customers.     Offering your customers "RED CARPET" service will help to ensure a lasting, profitable relationship with your customers. Offering excellent customer service could mean the difference between success and failure for your business.     This process should begin when a potential customer makes an inquiry about your product or service. When a potential customer wants more information about your business, you should see that this information is in their hands as quickly as possible.     Your sales message should look professional and be truthful. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that your potential customer is some kind of idiot by making outrageous, unrealistic claims about what your product, service, or programme will do for them. Give your customers all of the information they need, so they’ll know exactly what they’ll receive if they purchase your product or join your program. Make sure that you deliver on every promise you make to your customers.     Forming a lasting relationship once you make the first sale     If you are a small mail-order dealer doing business out of your home, you should understand that when a person sends you money through the mail, they are giving you a vote of confidence. You should show your appreciation for their business by providing them with prompt, efficient service. Always make it a point to give them more than they expect to receive.     Establish a line of communication with your customers. Make sure that you provide them with a way to contact you by phone, email, or fax. Keep in contact with your customers by surprising them with an inexpensive free gift such as a wallet-sized calendar with your business name on it. Or include a special offer. Make your customers feel special. Let them know that you value their business.