fine. But many customers want to human experience when they shop. Those customers will go out of their way to spend money where people greet them, assist them, and thank them for their business. Those are the little things that bring customers back again and againRed and pink have taken over retail displays and online promotions, as we hurdle toward February and Valentine’s Day. No shortage of choices to express our feelings about that special someone: jewelry, candy, flowers, or maybe an electronic-something with headphones, along with a memorable greeting card. When it comes to purchasing those gifts, food items, and e-somethings, seems like there could be more LOVE built into the process. When we swipe our plastic or fill in the order form, what do we get besides a printed receipt?

Where’s the love?

Are there any companies that consistently treat their customers as if they love to serve them, love to have their business, and would love to see them return again and again? Not many these days. A few, but not many.

Did you know that there are actually stores out there that do NOT expect their staff to assist customers unless ASKED? The concept is called self-service. For customers who like being frustrated and walking in circles to find a staff member, then those stores are fine. But many customers want to human experience when they shop. Those customers will go out of their way to spend money where people greet them, assist them, and thank them for their business. Those are the little things that bring customers back again and again,

, along with a memorable greeting card. When it comes to purchasing those gifts, food items, and e-somethings, seems like there could be more LOVE built into the process. When we swipe our plastic or fill in the order form, what do we get besides a printed receipt?

Where’s the love?

Are there any companies that consistently treat their customers as if they love to serve them, love to have their business, and would love to see them return again and again? Not many these days. A few, but not many.

Did you know that there are actually stores out there that do NOT expect their staff to assist customers unless ASKED? The concept is called self-service. For customers who like being frustrated and walking in circles to find a staff member, then those stores are fine. But many customers want to human experience when they shop. Those customers will go out of their way to spend money where people greet them, assist them, and thank them for their business. Those are the little things that bring customers back again and again

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Where’s the love?

Are there any companies that consistently treat their customers as if they love to serve them, love to have their business, and would love to see them return again and again? Not many these days. A few, but not many.

Did you know that there are actually stores out there that do NOT expect their staff to assist customers unless ASKED? The concept is called self-service. For customers who like being frustrated and walking in circles to find a staff member, then those stores are fine. But many customers want to human experience when they shop. Those customers will go out of their way to spend money where people greet them, assist them, and thank them for their business. Those are the little things that bring customers back again and again

Did you know that there are actually stores out there that do NOT expect their staff to assist customers unless ASKED? The concept is called self-service. For customers who like being frustrated and walking in circles to find a staff member, then those stores are fine. But many customers want to human experience when they shop. Those customers will go out of their way to spend money where people greet them, assist them, and thank them for their business. Those are the little things that bring customers back again and again

fine. But many customers want to human experience when they shop. Those customers will go out of their way to spend money where people greet them, assist them, and thank them for their business. Those are the little things that bring customers back again and again, leaving a warm, satisfying feeling, like a cup of hot chocolate.

Even customers clicking away in their PJ’s expect to be welcomed, want to find help when needed, and deserve to be thanked for every purchase, large or small. If the brick and mortar or online experience is cold and unfeeling, chances are good that customers will go elsewhere.

Where’s the LOVE in your business?

What could you do to warm up the customer experience?

1. Establish new policies

Write new guidelines and distribute them to staff. Begin with the basics, such as how to answer telephone inquiries (return calls within 24 hours!) and how to route letters or emails. Keep it simple. Let employees know you care about responding to customer concerns.

2. Engage your customers

Ask customers how they would like to be treated. Provide an easy method for them to offer feedback (anonymously is OK) and spread the word that feedback is welcome and will be acted upon. Use voicemail, email, or a comment card. Use what is