How can one keep up with the rapid changes? You can learn what customers prefer these days which will help you anticipate what trends in the future.
Here, let’s discuss the future trends of customer service that businesses need to keep an eye on. We’ll also share use cases where you can learn where your business falls under to follow the trends.
Omnichannel Support
Gone are the days when businesses could get away with providing support only via phone or email. Today’s customers are looking for an omnichannel support system, where they can get help via various channels such as chatbots, social media, SMS, or WhatsApp. It’s easier for customers to connect with the brand and get their issues resolved.
Use case: Most retail e-commerce companies use omnichannel support to assist customers. Customers can start a conversation with a chatbot on the website, switch to SMS for more information, and then receive order updates through a mobile app. If they encounter issues, they can seamlessly transition to a phone call or email without losing context.
Other industries include: E-commerce, Retail, Telecom, Banking, Hospitality, etc.
Hyper Personalization
Hyper personalization is expected to be the next big thing in customer service. Customers have come to expect a personalized experience, where their needs and preferences are catered to individually. The advancement of technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data analytics enables businesses to have access to a wealth of customer data, which can be leveraged to create a personalized experience.
Use case: A streaming platform employs hyper-personalization to recommend content to users based on their viewing history, preferences, and even their mood at the moment. The platform uses AI algorithms to curate playlists, suggest movies, and tailor the user interface for each individual.
Other industries include: Entertainment, Streaming Services, E-learning, Personal Finance, News & Media, and more.
Chatbots and AI
Artificial intelligence-powered chatbots are becoming a popular tool for customer service. As customer service software becomes more sophisticated, they can handle more complex queries and provide real-time assistance to customers. Customers can receive instant answers to their questions, leading to better customer satisfaction.
Use case: An airline company utilizes AI-powered chatbots to handle routine customer inquiries such as flight status, baggage policies, and booking changes. Chatbots can also assist in rebooking flights during disruptions, offering real-time solutions to passengers.
Other industries include: Airlines, Travel & Tourism, Healthcare, Financial Services, etc.
Social Media
Social media has become the go-to platform for customers to voice their opinions and seek support. Platforms like Twitter and Facebook give easy access to connect with brands and share their feedback. Businesses are putting more emphasis on their social media presence, ensuring that their customers’ needs are being met on these platforms.
Use case: A fast-food chain actively monitors its social media accounts for customer feedback as well as complaints. It responds promptly to customer comments and direct messages, addressing concerns, as well as offering promotions/ vouchers to dissatisfied customers to improve their experience.
Other industries include: Food & Beverage, Retail, Technology, Consumer Electronics, and more.
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual and Augmented Reality is expected to revolutionize the customer service experience. With VR and AR, customers can receive a more immersive as well as engaging experience. For instance, a customer experiencing a problem with a product can use AR to get a real-time demonstration on how to fix the issue.
Use case: An automotive manufacturer employs augmented reality to provide virtual car maintenance tutorials. When a customer encounters an issue with their vehicle, they can use an AR app to see step-by-step instructions and animations overlaid on the actual car engine, enabling DIY repairs.
Other industries include: Automotive, Electronics, Home Appliance, Healthcare (for medical procedures and training).