Tell me about a time when you had to handle a dissatisfied customer
Theme: Customer Service Role: Inside Sales Representative Function: Sales
Interview Question for Inside Sales Representative: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Inside Sales Representative: Handles sales activities remotely, typically through phone or email. This role falls within the Sales function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Customer Service with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Situation: Briefly describe the situation when you encountered a dissatisfied customer
- Customer's issue: Explain the specific problem or complaint the customer had
- Active listening: Describe how you actively listened to the customer's concerns and empathized with their frustration
- Problem-solving: Explain the steps you took to address the customer's issue and find a solution
- Communication: Discuss how you effectively communicated with the customer throughout the process, keeping them informed and managing their expectations
- Resolution: Explain the outcome of your efforts and how you ensured the customer's satisfaction
- Follow-up: Describe any follow-up actions you took to ensure the customer's ongoing satisfaction and loyalty
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Customer service skills: Assessing my ability to handle difficult customers and resolve their issues effectively
- Problem-solving skills: Evaluating my approach to finding solutions and resolving conflicts
- Communication skills: Determining my ability to listen, empathize, and effectively communicate with dissatisfied customers
- Conflict management skills: Assessing my ability to remain calm, professional, and find mutually beneficial resolutions in challenging situations
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Blaming the customer: Avoid blaming the customer for their dissatisfaction. Instead, focus on understanding their concerns and finding a solution
- Lack of empathy: Avoid showing a lack of empathy towards the customer's situation. Demonstrate understanding and concern for their dissatisfaction
- Inability to resolve the issue: Avoid mentioning situations where you were unable to resolve the customer's issue. Instead, highlight instances where you successfully resolved the problem
- Lack of communication skills: Avoid mentioning situations where you struggled to effectively communicate with the dissatisfied customer. Highlight instances where you were able to communicate clearly and resolve the issue
- Lack of problem-solving skills: Avoid mentioning situations where you were unable to come up with a solution to the customer's problem. Focus on instances where you successfully identified and implemented a solution