Here in the US we know what ‘good’ customer service entails. Fast, friendly, competent service with a smile. That’s what everyone on the planet expects…right?  Not so fast! Things like ‘timely’, ‘competent’ and ‘courteous’ have different implications when it comes to global customer service.

 Most Americans want a confidant, get-it-done kind of person who chats them up, recommends what their favorites are and might even kid around throughout the service. That’s not gonna fly in Asia.

Look at Japan Where service is submissive.  Customers expect providers to be humble, speaking in a meek, quiet voice using excessively polite words that put the customer in a position of honor.

In Scandinavia it’s straight to the point. It’s service without the smile.  Anything more than strictly business is considered over the top and too pushy.

Europeans in general are more formal.  But there are differences between regions. Some European countries such as Spain, Italy and Romania prefer highly personalized service from a ‘real’ person.  Just don’t expect it to be fast. For instance in an Italian Bar (café) The same person who takes your order may cook your sandwich and serve it to you before helping the next customer in line.

Other European nations are not as comfortable sharing even the most basic of conversations.  Even the common American phrase ‘have a nice day’ is grating in some societies. Because some Eastern European countries have trouble getting even basic necessities, they look down on American style consumerism and consider it opulent