Monday October 7 is the launch day for National Customer Service Week 2013. This international event started 29 years ago and has received a proclamation from the President of the United States. Here are news and notes about how people around the world are observing Customer Service Week, plus a little history.
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Background of Customer Service Week
Why was it started?
Customer Service Week was created by the International Customer Service Association (ICSA) in 1984. Their purpose was to reward and recognize people who deliver customer service as the main part of their work. The event was recognized by the United States Congress in 1991 and in 1992 received a proclamation from President George H.W. Bush.
Learn more details about the history of National Customer Service Week in this helpful write-up by the ICSA.
When is it observed?
National Customer Service Week is observed every year during the first full week of October. In 2013 it starts on Monday, October 7 and ends on Friday October 11.
(Plan ahead for next year, in 2014 when Customer Service Week runs October 6-10.)
Where is Customer Service Week Happening?
Though it started in the USA, Customer Service Week is observed across the world. So far, your globetrotting customer service reporter has spotted activity in these customer service hot-spots:
North Dakota – Where the Governor issued a proclamation making it official.
New York City – Where the Mayor’s office has published a helpful guide to making the most of Customer Service Week.
Arizona – Where the Continuing Education Department at Arizona Western College is offering customer service courses.
England – Where the Institute of Customer Service is celebrating and promoting Customer Service Week.
Dubai – Where the 4th Annual UAE Customer Service Week conference is being held.
Detroit – Where the HDI Motown Chapter is observing Customer Service Week
Chicago – Where Chicago Communications LLC recognizes employees and customers this week.
Pasig City, Phillipines – Where the British Council enjoys tea and biscuits with their customers.
Making the Most of Customer Service Week 2013
While Customer Service Week only happens once a year, we all know customer service is important every day of the year. So this week is a great opportunity to create some new habits, learn some new skills and gain some new motivation to keep delivering Amazing Customer Service all year.
Here are some tips, ideas and suggestions from customer service experts to help you have a great Customer Service Week.
- Ariel De La Fuente, of Customer Service Advantage shares three handy tips to engage your team this week
- DeborahJ. Schmidt, professional speaker, corporate trainer and author, offers ideas to increase enthusiasm and motivation.
- Michele McGovern, of Customer Experience Insight delivers extra value with 17 solid suggestions based on what many companies are planning.
- And don’t forget the Top Ten Tips from this blog, providing plenty of ways to keep you busy building more loyal customers.
How to Learn More
Here are several resources where you can get all your questions answered about National Customer Service Week 2013.
- International Customer Service Association (ICSA)
- Customer Service Week 2013 FaceBook page
- Blog post about Customer Service Week 2013 by Bill Gessert, president of ICSA
- CSWeek.com
So take some time this week and plan some activities that engage your employees, co-workers and others to think about how you can improve customer service every week for the next 52 weeks.
