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Elevate Educational Series Ep. 3: Customer Service Matters!

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Elevate Podcast, hosts Sarah and Michelle delve into the critical role of customer service in business success. They explore the distinctions between external and internal customer service, emphasizing the importance of understanding and catering to different personalities within an organization. The episode also highlights the value of reflecting a business owner's personal values in their customer service approach, ensuring both internal happiness and external satisfaction. Join them for practical tips and insights to elevate your business.

Episode Notes

Hosts:

• Sarah - Business Development Manager for the Economic Development Commission in Kandiyohi County.
• Michelle - Academic Development Professional with the Mid-Minnesota Development Commission.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to Customer Service: Sarah and Michelle express their enthusiasm for customer service, emphasizing its importance beyond retail settings.
• External vs. Internal Customer Service: They define external customer service as interactions with customers buying a product or service, while internal customer service focuses on relationships within the organization, including employees, staff, and professional connections.
• Building Strong Relationships: Effective customer service involves understanding and catering to different personalities. Techniques like StrengthsFinder and DISC training can help tailor communication styles to individual preferences.
• Workforce Retention: Retaining a workforce is crucial and is influenced by understanding employees' work-life balance, communication preferences, and what motivates them.
• Team Dynamics: A strong team can support each other, especially when individual members are not at their best. Trust and collaboration are key to maintaining high standards of customer service.
• Reflecting Values in Customer Service: As a business owner, your values should be reflected in your business plan, including how you approach customer service. This ensures consistency and alignment with your overall vision.
• Practical Tips: Sarah and Michelle share practical advice on how to manage customer service effectively, ensuring both internal happiness and external satisfaction.

Conclusion: Join Sarah and Michelle as they explore the intricacies of customer service and provide actionable insights to help you create a successful business. Stay tuned for the next episode in this series, and remember to reach out with any questions or feedback.

Hosts: Sarah and Michelle 

Production: Economic Development Commission, Kandiyohi County; Mid-Minnesota Development Commission

Stay connected, stay inspired, and keep elevating your business!