12th November 2014
Creating meaningful rapport with customers is key to delivering memorable service. Simple yet powerful phrases can show empathy, build trust, and enhance the overall experience.
To help you connect with customers more effectively, we asked our panel, “What are the best phrases for building rapport?” Here are 20 standout examples they shared.
Incorporating questions about the customers day into the call, shows genuine interest in the other person means, and encourages them to engage more openly in the conversation.
Contributed by: Carolyn Blunt
Talking on a personal level can help build rapport. Using “your” shows that the customers concerns are important and validates their experience.
Contributed by: Magnetic North
This phrase shows a proactive and confident attitude, reassuring the customer that you’re committed to finding a solution quickly and efficiently.
Contributed by: Genesys
By saying ‘please’, ‘thank you’, and ‘sorry’, you are showing that you are polite which brings a comfort to the customer making them feel valued and respected.
Contributed by: Beverley Mullard
Telling the customer you will act immediately shows that you recognise the urgency of the matter. Make sure you keep the customer informed and provide a quick resolution.
Contributed by: Vonage
Using “I” is on a more personal and connective level than using “We”. After all, there is only you and the customer on the line. Let them know that “I” will fix that issue for them. Taking ownership is key.
Contributed by: Magnetic North
This phrase shows empathy and understanding, helping the customer feel heard and supported during a challenging situation.
Contributed by: Genesys
This statement reassures the customer that their issue is a priority and will be addressed quickly, instilling confidence and reducing any anxiety.
This phrase shows appreciation for the customer’s feedback, making them feel valued and reinforcing the importance of their input in improving service.
Contributed by: Richard McCrossan
The statement ‘I understand’ validates the customers experience and makes them feel heard and respected. This can help diffuse tension and frustration.
Contributed by: Steve Morgan
Offering to ‘get it sorted’ shows ownership and accountability and that you are willing to find a solution. It can build trust and confidence in the company.
Contributed by: Emz
Using WE is important to build rapport especially when suggesting solutions as it creates a sense of being on their side and working together.
Contributed by: Mocca, a Call Centre Helper reader
Starting the call with a friendly and positive greeting sets a welcoming tone. By asking ‘how can I make your day easier’ shows the customer that you are focused on meeting their needs.
Introducing yourself with a phrase like this makes you seem friendly, approachable and polite. It personalises the interaction and sets a positive tone for the rest of the call, making it easier to establish rapport.
This statement builds rapport as it shows a genuine care and reassurance that their issue is will get fixed. By following up you are building trust and creating a relationship with the customer.
Contributed by: Jonty Pearce
By doing this, you are asking the caller permission to hold, you are giving them a reason for the hold, and your providing them an attainable timeframe for the hold.
Contributed by: Brian Pratt
By letting them know that “I” will fix that issue, you are connecting on a more personal level and that you are taking ownership of the problem.
Contributed by: Britney
By using ‘will’ you are installing confidence in the customer that you can help them, providing a sense of relief and confidence that the situation will be handled efficiently.
Contributed by: Melissa Radcliff
Acknowledging their emotions and saying that you care validates their feelings and builds trust. It helps create a connection and shows genuine interest in the customers well being.
Contributed by: James, a Call Centre Helper reader
The last sentence at the end of the call leaves the essential ‘long lasting impression’ among the customers. By asking if there is anything else you can help with allows the customer to raise any other concerns or questions they may have, ensuring a thorough resolution to their issues.
Contributed by: Biju Jose
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These sample rapport statements are great examples to show simple ways you can use words and phrases in customer service to start establishing rapport. For more articles on rapport building, why not also have a look at:
Reviewed by: Hannah Swankie