What is the first step when addressing a customer concern?

The most effective first step when addressing a customer concern is to apologize. An apology demonstrates empathy and acknowledges the customer’s feelings, which can help to ease any frustration or discomfort they may be experiencing. It shows that you value their feedback and are committed to resolving the issue.

While options like giving them what they want or assessing the situation may be important later in the resolution process, starting with an apology sets a positive tone for the interaction. It opens the door for further conversation and allows the customer to feel heard and respected, which can significantly improve their overall experience.

Asking them to wait could potentially exacerbate their frustration, as it removes the immediate acknowledgment of their concern, while assessing the situation is typically a step that follows the initial recognition of the issue being presented. Therefore, apologizing is a crucial initial action that can lead to a more successful resolution to the customer's concern.