Customer Service On The Web
By: Karon Thackston
The Internet has become absolutely huge! With all the e-businesses that have popped up over the last 5 years, it's no wonder customers get frustrated.
After all, we as business owners are asking customers to spend their hard-earned money with a company they've never physically seen. There is a big trust factor customers must overcome before purchasing on the Internet. That's just one of the reasons many people will research products on-line but will not purchase from a virtual store.
Providing excellent customer service on the Web cannot only increase your sales, but can also help ensure repeat business. Here are a few simple ways to improve your site's customer service.
1. Apply the Golden Rule. Treat your customers the way you would want to be treated… or better!
2. Say Thank You. Whether via auto responder or a personally typed email message, be sure to thank customers for their patronage.
3. Respond to emails within 24 hours. This is the biggest complaint consumers have when dealing with e-businesses. Be sure to sent prompt replies to all email messages.
4. Give them something. That's right… give them something free just for visiting your site. You could provide information; offer printable coupons to related products or a discount on future purchases.
Above all, make customers aware of how much you appreciate their business. A site that provides a feeling of good will and good customer service will no doubt gain many repeat customers.
