Some people are just really likeable. They have wonderful personalities and genuinely enjoy the company of people - and helping them. These are the people that are the most successful in customer service. That is not to say that these are not skills that can be obtained through training, as they definitely can be, but if you love people then customer service is where you should be!
A lot of customer service jobs are becoming more about dealing with people over the phone or through email. In these positions you have to figure out ways to engage the customer and personalize the experience for them when you are nothing but a computer screen or a voice. This can be a great challenge for some people who love being in service but do not know the best way to approach customers in this manner. It's hard to be charming in an email without coming off as cheesy.
In these positions and all customer service jobs the priority is - you guessed it - the customer! Do everything you can to make them feel happy, welcome, and involved in your service and the products you are selling. One of my favorite CS quotes is "Educate and Accommodate" and if you can do these two things you will be a customer service superstar! Another thing that is important is to be an advocate for your customers at all times. If there is ever a time when you have to choose between the customer and anything else - the customer is and should always be your choice.
If you have a feeling that the customer is wrong - in any way - this is where the education comes in. Teach them about what you know and gently educate them on all you know. This is not a time to take "sides" with anything else as the customer should always be your focus. Accommodate the customer by making sure they are well taken care of (to the best of your abilities) and let them know that you are on their side - their advocate! If you can follow all of this you will not only make a great employee, and make many people happy - but you will be successful and make money while doing it!
Happy job hunting - and of course the best of luck!
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