Customer service is about providing the customer with what they want, when they want it and how they want it. But that’s just the starting point. To really grow your business, you need to focus on key actions that customers will appreciate.

Here are five ways you can stand out in your customer’s mind.

Five Things Customers Appreciate

1. Buy from them.

Whenever possible use your customers' services and buy their products. And be sure they know you are doing this. There is no better way to increase their loyalty to you than for you to become a loyal customer of theirs.

2. Be accessible.

Always be available and willing to help. Be open to working with customers at their convenience rather than at yours.

3. Speak their language.

Get rid of your internal jargon and speak in their language. If a customer feels stupid working with you, they’ll buy somewhere else.

4. Take care of your best customers.

Don’t run a special offer for first-time customers without offering the same opportunity to your current customers.

5. Establish a customer advisory panel.

Grow your business by letting your key customers tell you what they want and need.