Being a Good Customer

March 27, 2013
What does it take to be a good customer?

What does it take to be a good customer?

Take a moment now to think about your best customers and write down some words or phrases that describe them. 

Here is a common list people come up with in this exercise:

  • They communicate their expectations very clearly
  • When things change, they tell us—they give us a heads up whenever possible
  • Honest, polite
  • Friendly
  • Patient
  • They do not make assumptions

Interestingly enough, all of these qualities are the same ones that describe good customer service delivery.  While good customer service delivery is a product of many factors, it is reasonable to suggest that customers who exhibit the qualities above will likely receive excellent service in return.  Such customers realize that communication is a two-way street.  And though they might expect to be treated like kings, it is likely that they are “good” kings. 

In customer service, there is a saying that what you give is what you get.  This applies to you as a service provider, but perhaps just as importantly, it applies to you as a customer.  If you communicate well and treat your service providers respectfully, it is very likely that you somehow find that you are the recipient of good service or sometimes even exceptional service.  It is also very likely that you find yourself feeling that the money you spend on your suppliers and vendors is well worth the value they provide back to you.  This is no coincidence.

So, are you a good customer?