Final answer:
In order to resolve a complaint when a customer appears to be mildly irritated, a service representative should choose their words carefully, stay calm and listen, avoid blaming, ask open-ended questions, restate what they heard, focus on problem-solving, and seek support when necessary.
Step-by-step explanation:
The MOST appropriate action for a service representative to take when a customer appears to be mildly irritated when lodging a complaint is:
- Choose your words carefully: Avoid using inflammatory language that may worsen the situation.
- Stay calm and listen: Be attentive and respectful while the customer expresses their concerns.
- Avoid blaming: Instead of asserting right or wrong, focus on finding a solution to the problem.
- Ask open-ended questions: Learn more about the customer's position to better understand their perspective.
- Restate what you heard: Show the customer that you were actively listening and prevent misunderstandings.
- Focus on problem-solving: Concentrate on resolving the issue rather than placing blame.
- Seek support when necessary: If unable to resolve the conflict, involve a supervisor or HR department.