The Netherlands still has its array of challenges as we head into the second half of 2012. Because of our strategic location, we can still readily serve the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Blessed with relatively low unemployment, the issues across the continent have not helped and have decreased consumer confidence and economic growth. Household debt continues to pull on the service sector and everyone is looking for a deal when they buy and purchase products and services.
Service is the key term for retail across the country. The question is how do we posture our organizations to stand out with both quality and customer service excellence. The answer is a simple Carnegie- focused one. It is within S.E.R.V.I.C.E. itself that profits and consumer satisfaction are fostered and grown.
The ingredients of S.E.R.V.I.C.E. just make sense:
- S: Satisfaction has to be ensured with every situation and transaction. The consumers expect service to be relatively mistake-free and friendly across the board. Give them what they want.
- E: Excellence is the goal of every business. It is a challenge to have it in every pocket of the organization but it still should be the number one objective.
- R: Reach is critical and it is based on reputation. People will come from far and wide when the company’s reputation for service is focused and sound.
- V: Visibility is incredibly important in these days of social media marketing. It is a numbers game and if done correctly, business success is created through engagement across all the platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.
- I: Importance is always a key aspect when customers are at stake. Each client is the top priority of the moment. Value and valuable are interchangeable.
- C: Communication is always the top tool to use when customer service dysfunctions as it sometimes does. Clarity and purpose with each interaction usually provide the foundation for increased customer satisfaction.
- E: Ego is never a part of any service situation. Place egos outside the door and pick them up as you head home. Accepting responsibility for both good and bad will always promote an increased opportunity for success. It is about customer happiness.
Leadership in 2012 has a service derivative that promotes both opportunity and growth. In these economic times, it continues to be a top priority.
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