You've heard of mystery shoppers right? They're independent contractors who are hired to pose as a customer to assess certain aspects of a customer service experience. When they're finished, they send in a detailed report of their findings.
I have to admit that 25 years in the customer service field has turned me into a chronic mystery shopper. Yes, sometimes I get paid for it, but mostly it's because it's become ingrained in me. If you work in customer service, I'll bet you can relate. Most everybody in customer service develops a heightened sense of awareness, even when they're just being customers.
Sometimes it's a curse. Part of me would like to just be able to do my shopping, or eat at a restaurant without feeling the need to think about evaluating my experience.
On the other hand, it's a benefit to those who provide great service. I never fail to recognize it. If I'm in a restaurant, my appreciation shows up in the tip. But I always try to tell them what I appreciated as well. If I'm in the grocery store, I take just a couple of seconds to make eye contact and tell the person what I appreciated about their service.
Sometimes I feel like a vigilante! A one-man band trying to make a difference in the customer experience. Maybe I can!
Need to run out and do a little shopping now, but before I do, let me ask you this...
What do you do to show your appreciation for great service?
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