Recently, I had an opportunity to witness STELLAR customer service in action; something that you would think might be at the top of a restaurant’s list, right? But good customer service is not always a ‘given’ in any industry. But, it should be…and here’s why.
A Recipe for Success
My wife and I went into an Asian restaurant on a weekday night and the place was full, so we sat down at their counter on bar stools. Our seats happened to be right next to the carry- out and cash register. The owner, who was a woman, was handling the carry-out, which was extremely busy. Remarkably, four out of every five people who came in to pick up their carry-out order greeted the owner by her first name. But, more incredible than that- the owner called each one by their first name! In addition, she then asked them about something personal she remembered from a previous conversation.
I was floored! How many restaurant owners take the time to know, and remember, your first name?
When it slowed a bit, she sat next to us at the counter. I was compelled to compliment her personal relationship skills: knowing people by their first name and remembering something important about them. She went onto say, that they rarely advertise and that almost all their customers come to them by word- of- mouth.
Seeds of Gratitude
Now, you could really save some money by not advertising, and by comparison- good customer service is CHEAP! But more importantly- you’re building for the future…What separates this owner from others in the restaurant industry [besides great food] is she made people feel special and important. The result? She gave them the best over-all experience possible! Every business should immediately put this formula to use.
Amazing customer services accomplishes many things, all at once, to ensure future business:
1. Significance: Builds rapport so customers feel important
2. True Harmony : Creates an environment of organized effort and team work
3. Accessibility: Allows customers a way to easily solve a problem, save time or money
4. Setting The Tone: The culture unites the business around one common goal
5. Tuning In: By always looking out for the customer, you’re creating a recipe for long-term sustainable success
So, until next time- don’t forget the cycle that you can create with the simple mindset of putting the customer first!
As always, I’d really enjoy hearing your feedback so please feel free to leave a comment on the page.
Wishing you a life full of unlimited health, happiness and prosperity.
– Mark Luterman