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To effectively serve an angry customer, what must you do?

1) Move beyond the emotions to discover the reason for their anger
2) Ignore their anger and focus on finding a solution
3) Express your own anger to match theirs
4) Avoid the customer and hope they calm down on their own

1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

To effectively serve an angry customer, one should remain calm, listen carefully, ask open-ended questions, and focus on finding a solution. It's important to communicate respectfully and seek help from a supervisor or HR if needed. Exceptional customer service can transform a conflict into an opportunity for positive change. Option A) Move beyond the emotions to discover the reason for their anger is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

To effectively serve an angry customer, it is essential to move beyond the emotions and discover the reason for their anger. This involves listening attentively and staying calm, which can help de-escalate the situation. You should choose your words carefully so as not to inflame the situation, remain open and respectful, and avoid suggesting that you're right and the other person is wrong. Asking open-ended questions can aid in understanding the other person's position better. For example, "Can you explain to me what caused your dissatisfaction today?" rather than making statements that could be seen as accusatory. It's also helpful to restate what you've heard to ensure there are no misunderstandings and to show that you're actively listening.

Focus on solving the problem at hand rather than assigning blame. If a resolution is not immediately within reach, don't hesitate to seek assistance from a supervisor or the HR department. Remember, offering exceptional customer service can lead to a positive outcome and might boost job satisfaction. In situations like a retail employee being confronted by a boss for a cash drawer discrepancy, applying these techniques can facilitate a productive conversation. The employee could calmly explain the situation, clarify any misunderstandings, and work with the supervisor to find a solution. It is essential to approach such conversations with the goal of resolving the conflict amicably and maintaining a positive working relationship.

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