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Few people would dispute that treating customers well is essential to business success. “The customer is the reason you have a job,” asserts Renee Evenson, author of Award Winning Customer Service.

Unfortunately, many employees have a narrow view of who the customer is, focusing only on those who buy products or services. According to Evenson, prospects, vendors, service workers, colleagues, and even your competitors should be regarded as customers. “When you realize that every one of these people influences your paycheck,” she notes, “you can begin to recognize that every improvement in how you treat them directly results in benefits to you.” Evenson offers these tips for good customer service:

• Exemplify the right behavior and be part of the solution. Step up and lead the way. Never expect anyone to do anything you are not willing to do.
  
  
• Pay attention, give attention. Stay tuned to how your customers respond to what you say and do.
  
  
• Never take anyone for granted. Always acknowledge help, support, and outstanding performance when you see them.
  
  
• Lead the way. When you see a situation that needs action, handle it immediately.