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The digital world, we live in an ever-increasing digital world. Customer service ain’t what it used to be. What does it take these days to speak with an actual human voice over the phone? I typically just keep pressing zero until a recording finally states, “Hold on, while I connect you with a customer service representative,” or the undefined, “I’m sorry, you have pressed an invalid number.” Then of course, there is that lovely hold music.  I  never walk into a bank anymore, my banking is done on my computer or at an ATM.  I do not pay bills in person or even write checks.  Bills are paid on my mobile device or on a website.

So, what exactly does customer service entail today? What drives you to leave greater than 15% for a tip? Are you even cognizant of good service? I recently took my family out for a nice meal. The food was good, the atmosphere was nice, the wait staff was friendly and attentive, as they should be.  When the check arrived, there was a list of suggested gratuities, ranging from 15%, 18% and 22%.  So, is that customer service?  Providing information, a glass of iced tea, and some chopsticks?

Do you want to be remembered? I recently read a marketing case study about the Blue Whale Moving Company out of Austin, Texas. This successful moving company was born out of good service.  A young college graduate, who had worked his way through school had impressed a hot shot attorney during a move. The attorney told the kid, “Call me when you graduate.”  He did and, together, they launched Blue Whale Moving Company, they saw revenue of $1.7 million by year five. All resultant of good customer service.

Do you go that extra mile?

Do you tailor your services? What is your differentiator? Where is your level of service? Are you deserving of that 22% tip? Or will your customers grumble at the thought of leaving a whopping 15% tip?

One of my recruiter friends consistently asks himself, “Why should they call me?”  This question motivates his efforts for providing value and the greatest value you can offer is to serve your customer.

Rayanne Thorn, @ray_anne is the Marketing Director for the online recruiting software company, Broadbean Technology.  She is also a proud mother of four residing in Laguna Beach, California, and a contributor for Blogging4Jobs.  Connect with her on LinkedIn.  

In Part 1 of “It’s a Dry Powder Market,” I introduced the dry powder theory. The dry powder theory is an investment term used to describe tactics investors employ during an economic recession where they maintain a very liquid amount of assets that are quickly available to adjust to the turbulent market.  Companies keep cash (the most liquid of assets) in their bank accounts and reserves to account for the volatile market.    And because talent is the most expensive form of capital, companies forgo hiring permanent employees and opt for other strategies like work redistribution and the hiring of interns and contract and temporary employees.

Temporary and contract employees are extremely liquid.  Here today and gone tomorrow.  Companies opt to pay larger contract or hourly rates of pay rewarding these type of employees for the risk associated with a temporary position.  Companies can quickly eliminate this type of overhead without costly severance plans, benefit payments, and guilt associated with layoffs and corporate restructures.

A large number of companies are employing this type of hiring in 2010 just in case.  A candidate can compete in a Dry Powder Job Market not just against other candidates but also the economy by considering the following:

• Demonstrate Value. It’s no secret the job market is extremely competitive.  A job seeker must be on their game and demonstrate during every opportunity that they are the best investment a company can make.  This starts with your online presence and LinkedIn profile.  Companies want to see how your experience and success can translate into revenues for their company.  Focus on quantitative figures and numbers when describing your responsibilities and projects.
• Be Aggressive. Bring your A Game at every opportunity.  Companies have access to hundreds of high quality candidates.  Use testimonials and references to get your foot in the door.  Don’t wait for your interview.  Connect with company representatives from the moment you know there is an opening but with great care.  Consider your strategy and competition in everything you do.
• Be Creative. A simple resume and cover letter is no longer enough.  Consider coming with a marketing pitch, an idea to promote their product, and presentation to lower their expenses and increase efficiency.  Give them an idea or solution they can’t live without.  Look to your professional network to seek ideas and recommendations outside of your market or industry.  Creativity matters.

**Look for Part 3 of “Dry Powder Market” discussing market strategies and one job seekers aggressive move that got a company’s attention.

Photo Credit Warning Signs Direct.