Tips for Startups to Achieve the Best Customer Service

What method can I use to achieve the best customer service for my startup? Originally appeared on Quora: the place to gain and share knowledge, empowering people to learn from others and better understand the world.

Providing an excellent customer service is no easy task. It is really hard work. Most especially as a startup. Startups can have a lot of limitations that can affect the level of customer service that they provide. But of course, it is not impossible. And there are many ways to still do it.

Having experienced working on a startup myself, here are the methods you can use to achieve the best customer service:

Know Your Product

In order for you to provide an exceptional customer service, you have to know your product first, inside and out. Understand your strengths and weaknesses. It is better if you can anticipate issues or concerns that your customers might encounter when using your product. Take note of the questions that they might raise and make sure that you answer each adequately.

Create A Service Culture

One of the best ways for a startup to provide the best customer service is by instilling it in their business culture. Make sure that everyone on your team is on the same page. Train all your employees on how to give excellent customer service. Ensure that your whole company gives utmost priority to your customers.

Be Always Available

Customers of today expect that businesses can address their issues any time or any day of the week. Give your customers ways to contact you through multiple channels like phone, email, and social media. But also make sure that there are trained people that will address their issues whenever or wherever.

Utilize Data

If you gather data from every customer that transact with your business, make sure that you put it into good and proper use. With the help of technology like CTIs or CRMs, provide a personalized service that is tailored to each of your customer’s needs. Analyze their history and buying patterns so that you could exceed your customer’s expectations.

Listen to Customers

Startups tend to focus on their product and business more. But that’s not enough. Early on, you have to listen to your customers. Get their feedback regularly. Consider their suggestions if you need to make changes to your product and service. Customers want their voices to be heard. And getting their insights can build stronger trust to your business.

Contributed by Chris Woodard,Co-Founder @ Handle.com