Learn to Love Customer Service

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I won’t deny that small, mom owned businesses are generally among the best when it comes to customer service. Kudos to you! However, a recent experience – that I’d rather forget! – made me think it wasn’t such a bad topic to bring up here.

Customer Service is a Learned Skill

In a previous life I was a waitress and let me tell ya, dealing with cranky pizza eaters at 11:30 p.m. wasn’t always fun. However, I’d like to think it taught me some important lessons that I’ve carried with me through both my professional and personal lives.

It is extremely important that you are not only considerate to your customers, but available and accommodating as well. Below are just a few of my favorite customer service tips that can be learned by anyone!

Be Accessible!

Your website (or social media page) should list not only an e-mail address but also a phone number so that you can be reached if need be. If someone can’t contact you with a question, they most likely aren’t going to feel comfortable sending their hard-earned money to you.

Respond!

I know you have your own, busy life with kids and tons of responsibilitie. And, I’m not saying that you need to respond to every e-mail within minutes of receipt, but within 24 hours would be good.

Be graceful!

Don’t argue, it’s not worth losing a customer, or future customers over. Even if you don’t feel as though you did anything wrong, be understanding and helpful.

Listen!

When a customer contacts you with a complaint or a compliment, listen! What they have to say is important and could give you crucial insight to what your customers want and what they expect.

This can only help you!

Go the extra mile!

Once you have a customer, keep them! It’s the little things, like a thank-you note included with the order, or future discounts for referrals, etc. that will keep them coming back!
Hopefully this was helpful, and at the very least reminded you about some important aspects of customer service.

Have a great {or horrorific} customer service story to share? Shoot me a message – I’d love to hear it (and share anonymously with the broader group if you’re willing)!

Madison Crenshaw is a mother of two and a serial entrepreneur originally from the Southern US. In the last decade, she has made the DC area her home. She is a savvy businesswoman who is always looking for the next big opportunity. She is an expert at networking and knows how to make her presence felt. She is a strong believer in the power of education and has been actively involved in her children's education. In her free time, she loves to travel, explore new cultures, and spend time with her family. She is passionate about making a difference in the world and is always looking for ways to help her community.

Contact Madison
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Awesome Ways to Market a Local Business

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As a mom of two, I know firsthand that running a business can be a challenge. You have to wear many hats, from CEO to accountant to marketer, and that can be overwhelming. When it comes to marketing your local business, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest trends and strategies. After all, you don’t want to be the last kid on the block when it comes to reaching potential customers.

So, if you’re looking for ways to spread the word about your business and get the customers you need, here are three great marketing strategies that I swear by.

Networking

Networking is a great way to get the word out about your business. Whether you attend local events, join a local business group, or even just chat with friends and family, networking can be a great way to make connections and get your business out there.

Plus, it’s a great way to make friends and meet people who can help you grow your business.

Social Media

In today’s world, social media is a powerful tool for getting the word out about your business. Not only can you reach a wider audience, but you can also create relationships with your customers and build your brand. Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or any of the other social media outlets, you can use it to get the word out about your business.

Content Marketing

Content marketing is a great way to get people interested in your business. Whether it’s a blog post, an email newsletter, or even a video, you can use content to provide valuable information to your customers and get them interested in what you have to offer.

And there you have it, three great ways to market your local business. Now all that’s left to do is get out there and start spreading the word!

Oh, and one more thing… don’t forget to have fun! After all, this is your business and you should enjoy it. So, go ahead and crack a joke or two, your customers will appreciate it.

Madison Crenshaw is a mother of two and a serial entrepreneur originally from the Southern US. In the last decade, she has made the DC area her home. She is a savvy businesswoman who is always looking for the next big opportunity. She is an expert at networking and knows how to make her presence felt. She is a strong believer in the power of education and has been actively involved in her children's education. In her free time, she loves to travel, explore new cultures, and spend time with her family. She is passionate about making a difference in the world and is always looking for ways to help her community.

Contact Madison
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