“I was wondering what ever happened to customer service? No matter wherever you go, you cannot get anyone to help you. A lot of the times when you ask someone, it seems like you are just bothering them. When we go to Macy’s, we don’t get any customer service at all. Is there any way you could find out what is going on out there? A lot of the employees are rude when you ask them a question and they don’t even know what they are talking about.”
Red Phone: Dear Unserved Shopper, Sorry, Red Phone is too busy to answer your question. Just kidding. Unfortunately as money gets tight, sometimes it seems like the first thing that goes is the customer service. Businesses have been forced to reduce staff and cut costs to try to survive. That puts added stress on the remaining employees, who often see customers as just one more nuisance they have to deal with in their already filled work schedule.
The most important thing to remember is to treat people in customer service with respect and kindness. It is more likely you will be treated the same as a result.
Most employees will generally help you especially if their job performance is judged by what type of service they provide. However, you will find that some employees will be rude to you no matter what you do. They might be having a bad day and take their frustration out on you.
That doesn’t mean that management doesn’t care what customers think though. You’ll be surprised at how a simple letter to the manager either by email or through the mail can help turn things around and maybe improve your experience next time. Include what happened, the time it happened and what you would like to see happen differently. By putting your thoughts in writing, you can better express yourself and give management the chance to respond.
Sometimes an employee might not be authorized to help or might not have the required knowledge. If you are looking for help with a product at a store or have a price concern, don’t be afraid to talk to management. Be polite but firm. But keep climbing the ladder until you find someone who can help.
