Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS | Scribe

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS

    Table of Contents

    1. Purpose

    2. Scope

    3. Responsibilities

    4. Customer Service Standards

    5. Handling Difficult Situations

    6. Confidentiality

    7. Continuous Improvement

    8. Non Compliance

    9. Review

    Version: 1 Effective Date: 8th August 2025

    1. Purpose

    To establish consistent customer service practices that ensure a professional, friendly, and efficient experience for every customer, fostering trust, satisfaction, and repeat business.

    2. Scope

    This SOP applies to all employees, contractors, and representatives who interact directly or indirectly with customers through in-person, phone, email, or digital channels.

    3. Responsibilities

    • All Customer-Facing Staff: Follow the service standards outlined in this SOP.

    • Managers: Provide training, monitor performance, and address service-related issues.

    • Directors: Ensure all new employees receive customer service training.

    4. Procedure

    4.1 Professional Conduct

    • Always greet customers promptly, politely, and with a smile.

    • Maintain a friendly and approachable tone in all communications.

    • Address customers by name where possible.

    • Remain calm and respectful, even in challenging situations.

    4.2 Communication

    • Use clear, positive, and courteous language.

    • Avoid jargon unless relevant and explained.

    • Listen actively without interrupting.

    • Confirm understanding by repeating or summarising key points.

    4.3 Response Times

    • Answer phone calls within 3 rings where possible.

    • Respond to emails or messages within 24 working hours.

    • Keep customers informed of any delays.

    4.4 Problem Resolution

    • Acknowledge concerns immediately.

    • Take ownership of the issue until resolved.

    • Offer practical solutions and provide realistic timeframes.

    • Follow up to confirm satisfaction.

    4.5 Product & Service Knowledge

    • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of products, services, and policies.

    • Be able to provide accurate information and make appropriate recommendations.

    • Refer to a Manager if unsure, rather than guess.

    4.6 Presentation

    • Maintain a professional appearance in line with the company’s dress code.

    • Keep workspaces tidy and free from clutter in customer areas.

    5. Handling Difficult Situations

    • Remain calm and professional.

    • Listen fully before responding.

    • Avoid arguing or becoming defensive.

    • Escalate to a supervisor if necessary.

    6. Confidentiality

    • Protect customer information in compliance with company policy and data protection laws.

    • Do not discuss customer details with unauthorised individuals.

    7. Continuous Improvement

    • Seek feedback from customers to improve services.

    • Participate in regular training and refresher sessions.

    • Share suggestions with management for service enhancements.

    8. Non-Compliance

    • Failure to follow these standards may result in retraining, formal warnings, or disciplinary action.

    9. Review

    This SOP will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect updated company practices or customer feedback.