If you've been following our Human Resources Management series, you'd probably remember that Chieko Shichijo, a customer service etiquette instructor, shared her invaluable insights with us on what we should convey to customers through customer service.
This time around, she will be talking about the importance of appearance.
To avoid any misunderstanding, I would like to make it clear that I do not advocate or support "judging people by their appearances." I believe that what's important in a person is what's inside.
However, even so, we are easily influenced by the information we receive through our eyes. Especially when we meet someone for the first time, the only information we can judge them by what we see. This is the only way to judge "what kind of person they are to me" and "what kind of influence they have on me".
In the world of customer service, first impressions are everything.
They set the tone for the entire interaction and can significantly impact a customer's perception of you. While it's true that personality and expertise play crucial roles in delivering exceptional service, the visual cues we present also hold immense power.
In particular, in many customer service jobs, your evaluation is determined based on the short amount of time you spend with customers. You don't always have a long time to let customers get to know you well, or the chance to meet them multiple times. In other words, you need to convey your gratitude and welcome to customers in an instant, and give them a sense of security and trust. That's why the first impression you make is so important.
The Power of Visual Cues
As humans, we are naturally drawn to visual information. In the absence of prior interactions or in-depth knowledge, we often rely on our first impressions to form judgments about individuals and their intentions. This is particularly true in the context of customer service, where initial encounters are often brief and limited.
Picture Credit: LinkedIn
For instance, imagine stepping into a luxurious hotel lobby. The staff, impeccably dressed and exuding professionalism, instantly convey a sense of competence and trustworthiness.
Similarly, the immaculate appearance of flight attendants instills confidence in the safety and quality of the air travel experience. Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Asiana Airlines for example, they all have strict grooming regulations for their flight attendants. Additionally, warm smiles, positive eye contact, and courteous manners are all important aspects they consider.
Picture Credit: CabinCrew24
These examples highlight the significance of visual cues in shaping customer perceptions. It's not about superficial judgments or prioritizing appearance over substance; it's about understanding the impact of nonverbal communication and harnessing its power to create positive first impressions.
Transforming Greetings into Meaningful Interactions
A simple greeting, such as "hello" or "welcome," can be transformed into a powerful expression of appreciation and hospitality when accompanied by the right visual cues. However, if these greetings are delivered without eye contact, amid distractions, or with a forced smile and unkempt appearance, they lose their impact and become just mere sounds.
The essence of a greeting lies in conveying genuine warmth and welcoming the customer into your space. To achieve this, it's essential to pay attention to your overall appearance, including grooming, posture, and attire. A genuine smile, direct eye contact, and attentive body language create a welcoming ambiance that puts customers at ease.
The Customer's Perspective
It's crucial to remember that the effectiveness of our actions is not determined by our intentions but by the perception by the customer. While we may believe we've done our best to smile or present ourselves well, the true assessment lies with the recipient of our service.
Staff members may think "I thought I served customers with a smile" or "I thought I was well-groomed" but it is the other person, i.e. the customer, who judges, not the staff member themselves.
Therefore, it's essential to solicit feedback from colleagues, managers, or even trusted friends or family members to gain an objective perspective on our visual presentation and communication style. This feedback can help us identify areas for improvement and ensure that our efforts are translating into positive customer experiences.
Beyond Self-Satisfaction: Embracing Continuous Improvement
Achieving excellence in customer service goes beyond self-satisfaction. It's about continuously striving to improve and ensuring that our actions align with our goals of providing exceptional service. It's about recognizing that "doing our best" is not the end goal; it's about consistently delivering results that meet or exceed customer expectations.
The goal is not "thinking you're doing it" but "whether you're doing it or not."
The Investment in Appearance
While investing in one's appearance may seem like a superficial endeavor, the returns are far from superficial. Taking the time to present ourselves professionally and exude confidence can significantly enhance customer interactions and positively impact our brand's reputation.A simple act of making eye contact and offering a genuine smile can create a connection that puts customers at ease and fosters trust. Maintaining a well-groomed appearance demonstrates respect for the customers and the environment we represent.
Conclusion: The Power of Visual Cues in Customer Service
In the competitive world of customer service, visual cues play a pivotal role in shaping customer perceptions and influencing their overall experience. By understanding the power of nonverbal communication and investing in our appearance, we can elevate our service interactions, enhance brand reputation, and ultimately achieve business success.
I hope that readers of this article will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of visual impressions and the effects that can be obtained. It's easy to say, but it's not easy to continue doing it and to ensure that the entire team does it thoroughly. However, it is precisely because it is not easy that companies and stores that do it properly are able to gain brand value. I urge you to work on brushing up your visual impression for the sake of your customers and to increase your own brand value!
Remember, first impressions matter. Make them count!
Author: Shichijo Chiemi
President of GLITTER STAGE