On my last trip to the US Post Office I was surprised that the line wasn’t as long as it usually is. I took my number and waited patiently as the “Now Serving” numbers slowly approached mine.

At last, I was one number away. I saw a customer ahead of me finish and walk away. The counter and clerk were available and I knew it was my turn.

Nevertheless, the clerk didn’t call my number. She turned to her coworker and started chatting about non-work related stuff. I waited a few more minutes until they had finished their little conversation and my number was called.

Prioritize

When you’re open for business, your customers always come first. Train your employees on the proper behavior they should demonstrate around customers. Remind your staff that the customer is their priority.

Downtime

There is always downtime at work and those are the moments when you can talk about whatever you want. When customers are waiting, your personal business can wait.

Busy?

Pay attention to the amount of time your customers are waiting. If you are frequently finding yourself too busy for your customers, get more help. Your business may be growing and you need to meet that demand.

Best Use of Customer Time

Help your customers get on with their day by serving them as quickly and professionally as possible. You may consider some of these options:

• show customers the shortcuts
• schedule your employees so that you have more on staff during busy times
• be alert to slow downs in customer throughput and rapidly adjust to meet that demand
• inform customers of wait times and delays
• give customers alternatives that would give them faster service
• make appointments with customers so they are guaranteed dedicated service

Respect

Respect customers’ time by focusing your undivided attention on them. This will show your customers that you really do care about them and will lead to repeat business.

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