To guarantee your success when interviewing for a customer service role, it is vital that you ace the interview question: “What does customer service mean to you?” This is one of the most common questions asked during interviews for service-related employment. Make sure that you can answer with clarity and confidence before entering an interview. Show
Here is your guide on how to successfully answer the interview question: “What does customer service mean to you?” The Definition of Excellence in Customer ServiceWhen considering this interview question, identify the key principles of good service. Customer’s service cannot be effective unless it is accessible, personalized, informative, and proactive. Examine each of these principles and the role it plays in creating an excellent customer’s service experience.
Customers want access to a service representative in a way that is convenient for them. If support channels are hard to access, customers will be more aggravated when they do finally get to express their complaint or query. Poor accessibility to customer support channels makes the company’s trustworthiness and legitimacy questionable.
A personalized touch shows customers that your business values their support and cares about their satisfaction. Being attentive and showing empathy are vital in making the customer feel heard.
Being knowledgeable about the company’s products and services is key to helping solve customer queries. Competent support staff convey a level of expertise and the ability to solve a problem efficiently without unnecessary delays.
Taking action without delay to solve a customer’s problem is an important aspect of customer’s service. Being proactive involves:
Why Employers Ask the Interview Question: “What Does Customer Service Mean to You?”The biggest factor in a customer’s service experience is their interaction with the service staff. Although alignment and efficiency across the organization is required, the key to building long-term customer loyalty lies with a good support team. It is in every company’s interest to hire people who genuinely understand and care about customer satisfaction. When you’re faced with the interview question: “What does customer service mean to you?” your interviewer wants to make sure that you:
What NOT to Say in an InterviewWhen asked what customer service means to you, don’t reply, “It means serving the customer”. This conveys little understanding of empathy, positive communication, and overall responsibility to both the company and the customer. Here are more types of answers to avoid during your interview. Avoid implying that you are simply there to do your job. Example: If you are applying for a cashier position do not imply that you are only there to ring up items according to the job description, and nothing more. Steer clear of making your helpfulness conditional to the customer’s attitude. Saying, “Customers who ask stupid questions annoy me,” does not display empathy, patience, or consistency. 60 Customer Service Interview Questions Tips for Answering the Interview Question “What Does Customer Service Mean to You?”In your response to the question “What does customer service mean to you?” you want to show that you: 1. Know what the elements of customer service entail 2. Truly grasp the concept and importance of customer service You can accomplish this by:
5 Examples of How to Answer the Interview Question: “What Does Customer Service Mean to You?”Use some of the examples below to answer the question: “What does customer service mean to you?” These answers indicate a proactive attitude and demonstrate that you take initiative. They are also effective as they show your willingness to accept responsibility. Example 1: Going the Extra Mile“Customer’s entails going beyond what is in the job description to exceed customer expectations. It requires answering questions with patience and resolving problems with a positive attitude. The priority is to encourage customer loyalty by offering a service which the customer feels is consistent and trustworthy.” Example 2: Positive Attitude“Customer service is largely about attitude. Even if you cannot solve the customer’s problem immediately, having a positive and caring attitude will make the customer feel heard. A good attitude is also about being a good listener, showing empathy, serving with a smile, and being patient.” Example 3: Knowledge“Customer service is about product knowledge and efficiency on the job. It is important to know the product or service well so that I can assist clients with confidence. It looks unprofessional when staff do not know details about what they are selling and cannot answer expected customer questions. Being able to advise customers with the best solutions in a knowledgeable manner will boost their confidence in you, your product, and your service.” Example 4: Efficiency“Great customer service entails delivering fast and efficient assistance, without compromising on quality. This also involves anticipating problems before they happen. For example, if I know the business will be busier over certain holidays, I will make sure that there are additional staff scheduled and that there is extra stock on hand. This will allow for more efficient service and prevent customer disappointment. It is too easy for customers to simply choose another business if you cannot deliver the required service.” Example 5: Focus on Details“Besides aspects such as product knowledge, being friendly, and listening to the customer, customer service is also about the details. When I receive a complaint via email, I contact the customer by phone with detailed feedback. This makes customers feel that you are attentive and proactive in solving the problem. I find that being personable and customizing my response to meet their needs solidifies a business relationship with the customer. Once the problem is addressed, I follow up one last time to ensure the client is satisfied.” Got the job? Check out this audio tutorial to learn how to make a positive first impression at work and set yourself up for success! Quick SummaryEvery employer looks for professional customer service skills when hiring new team members. In your interview, you will be asked the question “What does customer service mean to you?” In your answer, show that you understand:
Now, go ace your interview! Other Resources: CustomersFirst Academy offers comprehensive customer service training designed to help you grow your skills and advance your career. To keep learning and developing your knowledge of customer service, we highly recommend the additional resources below: How to Conduct a Reference Check After an
Interview 60 Customer Service Interview Questions What does it mean excellent customer service for you?What is great customer service? Great customer service means following best practices like valuing customers' time, having a pleasant attitude, and providing knowledgeable and resourceful resources, but that you also take things a step further to exceed — rather than just meet — expectations.
What does excellent customer service mean to you and how can you ensure it happens?The key to good customer service is building good relationships with your customers. Thanking the customer and promoting a positive, helpful and friendly environment will ensure they leave with a great impression. A happy customer will return often and is likely to spend more.
What is an excellent example of customer service?What are some examples good customer service? In retail, examples good customer service include remembering and appreciating repeat customers, forging a local connection with shoppers, putting your product knowledge to good use, and more. Read on below to discover what you can do to level up your customer strategies.
What are 3 important qualities of customer service?Essentially, the 3 important qualities of customer service center around three “p”s: professionalism, patience, and a “people-first” attitude. Although customer service varies from customer to customer, as long as you're following these guidelines, you're on the right track.
How do you define excellence in customer service?What is Customer Excellence? Customer excellence, also known as customer success, begins with ensuring customers achieve their desired outcomes. To achieve success customers need to be certain of getting value from the products or services they have purchased. They need to have their expectations met, or surpassed.
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