Be in this moment – Physically, mentally and emotionally. Show up when you’re supposed to, check your attitude and issues at the door, they’ll be still be there if you want to dwell on them after your shift. Put on your best smile – think of it as part of the uniform.

Remember the customer pays your salary. Customers they know they have options. If they don’t like the way they are treated at your place they’ll take their business (and your next raise) elsewhere.

Open your ears and eyes to what the customer is saying; see what their body language is telling you. Make sure you understand what they are really trying to say.

Give the customer your undivided attention. Clients are never an inconvenience – Ever. Don’t ignore a customer even for a minute. No finishing what you are saying or doing first or seeing what else is going on. Undivided attention means ALL of your attentiveness the entire time.

Don’t put technology before people. Interact with your customers, they’ll feel welcome and want to do business with you again. If there is a delay take the time to explain what’s happening to your customers. If they understand how you work they are less likely to become frustrated – and you’ll have a happier day.

Always try to exceed expectations. In other words, under-promise and over deliver. Anticipate a customer’s needs and wants and fulfill them before they ask. Strive to set yourself apart. Figure out what you can do for customers that someone else isn’t.

Don’t be afraid of customer complaints. Grievances are merely opportunities in disguise. This is your chance to play the hero and make someone’s day. Don’t forget to follow up on what went wrong in the first place so it can be fixed and won’t happen to anyone else.

Always say thank you and sincerely mean it – even when a customer does not buy or use your services.

Find something to appreciate about each customer. Everyone deserves respect as a human being. Never take any customers business for granted – even the cranky, picky or difficult ones.

Play nice with your co-workers. To your customers you are all part of the same team. Even if you work on commission, learn to play nicely with each other for the benefit of your company.