Celebrate Customer Service Week 2012

Customer Service Week was initiated in 1988 by the International Customer Service Association and in 1992 the week was observed nationally by Congress. The primary purpose of the week is to recognize the importance of customer service and those who provide it on a daily basis.

Each year the Customer Service Group selects a theme for the week. This year’s theme, “Be the One,” is very pertinent as our staff shows its dedication to providing quality customer service and its commitment to customer satisfaction each day. Our goal is to “Be the One” that makes a difference in the lives of everyone we communicate with.

Today, thousands of companies celebrate Customer Service Week. Visit our Facebook and Twitter pages and tell us your plans for celebrating customer service and those who strive to “Be the One”! While you’re there, take a moment to view some photos of our celebration. 

Customer service is equally important to our members. We frequently hear positive comments about the services they offer to their clients and this makes us proud.  Members were asked to share ways they offer quality service and some of the responses are featured below.

"I have been in business for over 16 years.  One small thing we do for our clients is to give a free visit if we make an error such as forgetting to put the trash out on pick up day.  We give these visits without the client asking as this is how we would want to be treated.  Today, old fashioned customer service is often overlooked.  What we do is very easy and it goes a long way with our clients."

 - Kathy & Greg Deisenroth, Moments of Caring Pet Sitting, Elkhart, IN

"As a pet sitter, we often go above and beyond.  One client called me in a panic while visiting the northeast.  Their itinerary included a trip into Canada and they had left their passports at home.  They asked me to FedEx their passports overnight and they arrived the next day so my clients were able to get into Canada without a hitch.  I covered the cost to FedEx the passports and never requested they repay me.  These clients often overpay me for my services and I thought this was a small thing I could do to show my appreciation for their continued trust in me." 

- Diane Keiser, Purrfect Pet Sitting, Scottsdale, AZ

"One of the things I do for my clients is to provide a checklist for them to view and approve prior to leaving for vacation.  After meeting with my clients, I create a document that I send to them via e-mail or read to them over the phone.  The checklist includes the dates they'll need my services, the number of visits needed, emergency contacts including the vet and instructions for care.  Doing this helps minimize mistakes and gives the clients added piece of mind.  I also leave a personalized card thanking my clients for their business.  I leave a couple of pieces of candy with this card for an added touch." 

 - Kathy Longwell, All God's Creatures Pet Sitting, Modesto, CA

"My clients appreciate the fact that I send them daily or nightly pictures of their pets.  I usually include a little update or caption.  I also send them one by text or e-mail each time I perform a visit..  This reassures my clients and lets them know that I made it safely to their home, which allows them to relax and have fun.  When taking the photo, I make sure that there is nothing in the photo that might entice a thief.  I let my clients know this as well which lets them know that I'm taking precautions to keep their pets and home safe."

- Robin West, Coastal Pawz, Frankford, DE