Customer service is fast becoming a lost art in the United States. With more and more companies moving to automated systems or relocating customer service departments overseas, it's rare that a customer actually receives stellar customer service any more. To have your company stand out and retain more and more of your customers, here are some things you absolutely must offer your customers.

C redibility

Your customers need to trust you. Without this trust, you have no foundation for a business relationship and you will find it difficult to keep your customers. Building credibility takes work and time but always pays off in the end. Research ways to increase your credibility in the eyes of your customers. Become known as the company who always follows through on promises.

U nderstanding

If you don't understand your customers - who they are, what they need, etc., you will find it difficult to connect with them. You need to take whatever steps possible to understand your customer. Survey them to find out what they like and don't like about your products or service. Use the results to improve what you offer them. Be creative and innovative; don't ever assume that you can't improve what you offer.

S ystems that work

Whatever type of business you operate, you need to have excellent systems in place. Every possible activity that can be systemized should be. In that way, you are always able to provide consistent good service to your customers. Don't send your customer from person to person because no one knows what to do. Have a procedure in place and follow it.

T hanks

Do you realize that without customers you would have no business? Thank your customers at every possible opportunity. Tell them "Thank you" when you hand them their change at the cash register. Tell them "Thank you" when you conclude a phone call. Send them cards thanking them for their continuing business or for a referral. Make them feel appreciated as if they are part of your family.

O verdelivery

One of the best ways to keep current customers and to find new ones is to go above and beyond what people expect. No matter what type of business you operate, you can find ways to add value to the services and products you are providing. Something as simple as always giving away a free product with every purchase makes people feel appreciated. When they feel appreciated, they are much more likely to return to your business when they need something in the future. You can also be sure that they will happily tell friends and family about the amazing business that always gives more than it has to.

M anners

Good manners, that is. It seems that many employees don't realize that they should be polite and friendly when dealing with the public. This is true whether you are dealing in a face-to-face environment or through an electronic environment such as email. Use common courtesy in your words and actions. It's not the only way to get things done, but it's the only way to get things done and keep your business growing.

E nergy

Energy is life and if you don't have it, your customers will realize it. People like doing business with people who make them feel good. Be happy to see or hear from your customers. Let them know that you're very busy making sure that everything is just right for them. Don't let them wonder if everyone is asleep in your back office.

R easons to Come Back for More

Give your customers a reason to come back, a reason to remember you the next time they need your service or product. If you work in a retail environment, you can offer them coupons or special customer-only offers - things that will keep them coming back to deal with you. If you work in a service environment, offer them a discount on their next or an additional service.

Never forget how important your customers are to your business. Treat them the way you would like to be treated and your business will grow beyond your wildest dreams.