Customer service seems such a fundamental part of any business. Without it there will be no returning customers and the business will rely heavily on new business. As we all know this is a lot more challenging than simply providing a friendly service and having the person/s come back.

It is said that Australia has some of the worst customer service in the world. I had never believed this until I went to Singapore and I experienced a different culture's version of customer service. I was taken aback by the smiling people, the conversation in the elevators, the detail provided to ensure I was happy as a customer.

Whilst we all believe the customer service we deliver is at a optimal level is there anything more that you could be doing for your customer to make them feel that bit more special, that bit more like your business delivers something your competition do not?

Over the years we have come to know customer service as something that is there and will happen when there is a complaint or something to resolve. We expect great customer service from suppliers, be it hairdressers, restaurants and retail outlets. If we don't receive this what usually happens? We shrug it off as that's just the way it is or go somewhere else. What can happen is that we are so used to accepting others' version of customer service that it becomes reflected in our own businesses.

When I started coaching several years ago there was one main reason I went to the college I did – the customer service. They were quick to respond to my enquiry, they were professional and gave me answers as well as made me feel like I belonged to something bigger than myself. They are now the most successful college in Australia.

Because others may put little value on customer service, ask yourself if your attitude is being reflected the way you want it to in your business. If you were a client in your own business, would you be happy with the service you received; extremely happy or only a little happy?

In simple terms, treat others as you would want to be treated and customer service is no different. The impact however, with great customer service is that your business will benefit continuously from it.

Working on a global market I ensure my customer service is the best that I can possibly deliver 100% of the time simply because I know what it feels like to get great customer service and I want this for my clients.

Consider how you come across when you deliver your customer service and if it is the way you want it to be...

Hally Rhiannon-Nammu is the Founder and Director of Creative Balance, coaching specialists.

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Hally Rhiannon-Nammu is a member of the Australian Women's Mentoring Network. Visit Hally's AWMN Profile (login required).

© Hally Rhiannon-Nammu 2011