Communication methods vary from business to business. 

Now, whether you are on the phone or face to face, some tips can help us communicate more effectively and improve customer service.

1. First, First impression. Creating a comfortable atmosphere is extremely important when you meet with a customer for the first time. If you are polite and listen to his/her demands patiently and show them interest, no doubt they will feel confident and comfortable to go on a second or third meeting with you. You will not need to convince them of how good your product or service is. If you pay attention to them, they will surely pay attention to you too.
2. Show them you care. Automatic responses are more accessible and faster, but, you should keep in mind that, on the other side, there’s another human being, and showing them you care. Ask them about their business problems, doubts, and expectations. Be empathetic, let them know you understand what they are trying to say. Give them advice, options, and solutions when necessary.
3. Beware of interrupting. Let them express themselves and make the most out of that information. You need to know what their problems and necessities are, so let them speak freely.
4. Provide answers to technical questions. Be empathetic, let them know you understand what they are trying to say. Give them advice, options, and solutions when necessary.
5. Conclude the conversation nicely. Try to close the conversation well as you started it, with a good atmosphere. Make them feel happy and that the time they invested in the conversation was worth it. Let them know you’ll be working on their demands and that you’ll be back to them as soon as possible. 

WEEKLY VOCABULARY

Well-mannered: having or showing good manners; polite.

Work alongside: work with other people in the same place and for the same purpose.

Feeling comfortable: the sense of calm, of repose, experienced while knowing that all is okay, even when things could be better.

To interact: act in such a way as to affect another; act reciprocally.

Fussy: (of a person) fastidious about one’s needs or requirements; hard to please.

PHRASAL VERBS

Butter up: to praise or flatter someone excessively.

“Raul was always buttering up the boss, so he was surprised when he failed to get a promotion.”

Let on: to talk about something intended to be a secret.

“Mrs.Gupta knows more than she lets on.”

IDIOMS

Like the cat that swallowed the canary: very proud.

Put one’s foot in it: to say something that causes someone to be embarrassed, upset, or hurt especially when the speaker did not expect that reaction.

Related Articles:

Dealing with Customers https://www.englishpriority.com/dealing-with-customers/

Business Communication https://www.englishpriority.com/business-communication/

How to be an Active Listener https://www.englishpriority.com/how-to-be-an-active-listener/

Want to practice even more?…