Final answer:
Service providers should prioritize both external customers and internal customers, but external customers should be given higher priority.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the business world, it is important for service providers to prioritize both their relationships with external customers and their relationships with internal customers. However, it is generally believed that the relationship with external customers should be given higher priority. This is because external customers directly contribute to the success and profitability of a business. Building strong relationships with external customers can lead to increased sales, customer loyalty, and positive word-of-mouth referrals. On the other hand, internal customers, such as employees and suppliers, play a crucial role in supporting the business operations and delivering value to external customers, but their satisfaction is often dependent on the success of the business in serving external customers. For example, if service providers prioritize providing excellent customer service to external customers, it can lead to increased job satisfaction among employees and a positive working environment.