This is the most wonderful time of the year, as sung by many, and customers are holding hope that in some small way your business can add to the magic of the season. Service, all year around, should be at its best, but during the holidays when people are distracted, frazzled, and looking for something merry and bright, make it your goal to meet and greet them with the "more" they are looking for. You have a special opportunity during this time of year to give your customers the gift of enhancing their experiences.

Like most of you reading this, I get sentimental and very nostalgic during the holidays. I remember so very clearly watching the holiday magic through the eyes of my children. The excitement over the lights and decorations, the colors, and the traditions are still present even at the ages of 19 and 22. As service providers, we have a responsibility and the ability to preserve these wonderful holiday feelings by the service we provide. It's a pretty powerful position to know you have the opportunity to make your customers day a bit brighter.

How do we attempt to make someone's day a bit brighter? What is the key message we need to tell ourselves and our staff? Simplify, simplify, simplify! If our message gets too complicated, we lost our chance. Get back to the basics! Your connection with your customer begins with a genuine smile and an offer to assist. Slow down and mean the words you say. There are so many "canned" responses that are said with no emotion or care. So often service providers sound robotic and somehow believe the customer is moved by the service that was provided. Not even close ladies and gentleman. "Have a nice day" is not thanking someone for their business. Look your customers in the eyes and thank them for their business - for choosing you, your company.  All pleasantries like, "have a nice day," "have a great day," "happy holidays," are nice, but do not come close to a well said and heartfelt "thank you." 

So go get "wrapped" up in the holiday spirit, and remember the basics of great customer service delivery during a very special time of the year ~ where the results of your actions will make a big difference financially to your company and create a happy loyal customer. Remember to deliver your service with genuine meaning and care!