An example of exceptional customer service...?

Question

I'm filling out a seasonal application for Harry & David. I've previously worked at a greenhouse, Victoria's Secret and pizza resturaunt as a teenager.

One of the questions on the application is: "Describe a specific situation where you provided exceptional customer service."

I have no idea what to write... Help!? Most of my days at work were a blur because I was usually tired and exhausted... I don't remember a specific situation!

Answer 1

Did a customer ever leave a cell phone/wallet/keys in your building and you ran out to catch them in the parking lot and give it to them?  Did you ever help someone carry purchases to their car?  At VS did you ever search high and low for a size or style for someone and suggest an alternative item when (inevitable) the size or style they want is out of stock?  Did you ever help a man at VS choose wisely for a gift?  Did you smile and greet customers, ask them if they are finding what they came for, give them a little space to browse if that is what they are doing no matter where you were working?  If so you are probably not located near where I live because I am shocked at the paucity of customer service in this Town where I have been a short time.  Employees at Target, Giant Eagle, restaurants clump together and converse in the aisles with impunity.  They avoid eye contact with shoppers and act put upon if you ask for help.  If that is you, you have never provided exceptional customer service.

Answer 2

I mystery shop, I am always asked if I have HAD exceptional customer service. I very rarely have to fill that box in. Exceptional customer service goes a bit above and beyond, so for example, last time I mystery shopped I was looking for an outfit for a friends baby who was being christened. I asked the shop assistant what the policies were for returning gifts. Not only did she tell me about gift receipts that show the purchase but not the amount so my friend would not have to know how much I spent if she just wanted to exchange the size, but the assistant took me to the department and showed me where the clothes were for a one year old boy. She gave me MORE help than I asked for, being friendly and giving me her full attention. This could easily be applied to victoria's secret if someone was looking for underwear for a girlfriend or something. Hope this helps!! Good luck x

Answer 3

"While working at VS, a portly, hairy person came in (who claimed to be a woman) and asked that I help her pick out something that would make her look s**y."  I spent the next three hours with "her" till we were able to find something that "she" liked..."  ;-)

Seriously, anytime you helped a customer at VS or stood up for the diners at the pizza place ("Don't use THAT!  It's OLD!"), will work