Customers know when to open their wallet - when you service them like nobody else!

17.07.10 06:41 PM By S.Swaminathan

We  have always known the importance of customer service and how it can boost customer retention and better word-of-mouth. But, the fact that it can help increase spend is an interesting statistic.

In a recent study, it is interesting to see that Indians value customer service the most!

Amex-customer-service-more-important-july-2010

Excellent customer service can push customer spend - Indians will spend 11% more vs Americans at  9%!

According to the same report, a majority of Americans report that quality customer service is more important to them in today’s economic environment (61%) and will spend an average of 9% more when they believe a company provides excellent service. This average spending boost ties US consumers in third place with Italian consumers, only consumers in Japan (10%) and India (11%) have a higher average spending increase resulting from excellent service.

Amex-customer-service-spend-more-july-2010

Here are some interesting additional highlights:

  • Customers themselves spread the good news. Positive Service experience generates great conversations amongst customers and their friends.
  •  48% felt companies are helpful but don’t do anything extra to keep their business!
  •  21% believe that companies take their business for granted!
  • When deciding which companies they do business with, it includes personal experience (98%), a company’s reputation or brand (92%), and recommendations from friends and family (88%).

It's time to put the customer at the center of customer service and do what it takes to keep  them surprised, engaged and involved. Not just satisfied. 

S.Swaminathan