Recently, I have experienced an increase in positive customer service experiences. I know, I know, coming from me this can be hard to believe. Over the past 4 years, 60% of my experience with customer service representatives (retail, online purchases, call centers, etc.) had been not so good. Lately, I must admit that-a smile and a "thank you, have a good day" has ALMOST become the norm again. I am hopeful that this will increase over time (immediately)J. I wonder if this is due to the current job losses and employees are appreciating their job even more than before. Maybe the employers have re-trained employees on the importance of customer satisfaction. But, whatever it is, it feels good to receive the positive response.

 

Administrative professionals must provide that same level of customer service (internal and external). Working with a variety of individuals can be challenging and rewarding. I always believed that you could learn 'something' from 'everyone'. Yet, externally, you are to provide the best service possible by representing your company according to its mission and vision statement. Over the years I have heard that sales representatives believe that, "if you are 'extra' nice to the Assistant, you have a better chance of meeting the manager." I would like to think that if an assistant has the power to determine whether or not a sales representative will get to see the manager, this assistant would not be able to make that determination because the sales representative was 'extra' nice. Extra nice being: bring a gift of flowers, candy, trinket, or extra leave behinds. That can be true because I have seen some 'not so friendly' people hired...on the spot! LOL.

 

It is always going to be the level of service or the quality of the product that the sales representative can bring to the company in determining if they are the right candidate. Of course, common curiosity goes a long way. But, your true opinion should be unbiased. Your opinion should contain the facts as it pertains to the subject. Use these opportunities to build credibility of your value to your team. And, you must maintain a positive presence with visitors and vendors in the office. In most cases, you represent the department where you work. Treat every visitor with the same respect that you would want to receive. Doing this will bring you one-step closer to the next level of your professional growth.