{"id":28872,"date":"2023-03-01T18:40:34","date_gmt":"2023-03-01T18:40:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.qcdesignschool.com\/?p=28872"},"modified":"2023-03-01T18:40:34","modified_gmt":"2023-03-01T18:40:34","slug":"20-customer-service-mistakes-thatll-hurt-your-design-career","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.qcdesignschool.com\/blog\/2023\/03\/20-customer-service-mistakes-thatll-hurt-your-design-career","title":{"rendered":"20 Customer Service Mistakes That&#8217;ll Hurt Your Design Career"},"content":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]Fact: Customer service is one of the most important factors when it comes to being a successful home designer. For starters, great customer service will help you build relationships with clients and customers. Furthermore, it also helps you stand out from the competition! However, if you make any of the 20 worst customer service mistakes listed below, then your design career could be in jeopardy![\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;20&#8243;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>So, what are these 20 worst customer service mistakes? Let&#8217;s find out!<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;Full Width Line&#8221; line_thickness=&#8221;1&#8243; divider_color=&#8221;accent-color&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;75&#8243;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;28876&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcdesignschool.com\/blog\/2023\/03\/20-customer-service-mistakes-thatll-hurt-your-design-career\/#The_ABCs_of_Customer_Service\" >The ABCs of Customer Service<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcdesignschool.com\/blog\/2023\/03\/20-customer-service-mistakes-thatll-hurt-your-design-career\/#20_Terrible_Customer_Service_Mistakes_to_Avoid_Making\" >20 Terrible Customer Service Mistakes to Avoid Making<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcdesignschool.com\/blog\/2023\/03\/20-customer-service-mistakes-thatll-hurt-your-design-career\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.qcdesignschool.com\/blog\/2023\/03\/20-customer-service-mistakes-thatll-hurt-your-design-career\/#Closing_Thoughts\" >Closing Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_ABCs_of_Customer_Service\"><\/span>The ABCs of Customer Service<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Before we dive into the list of customer service mistakes, let&#8217;s take a quick look at the ABCs of customer service first:\n<ul>\n \t<li><strong>A \u2013 Always be available<\/strong>. Make sure you are accessible and approachable to your customers.<\/li>\n \t<li><strong>B &#8211; Be understanding and empathetic<\/strong>. Customer service is all about putting yourself in the shoes of your customer and being understanding of their needs.<\/li>\n \t<li><strong>C &#8211; Communicate clearly<\/strong>. Make sure you communicate to your customers what you can and cannot do, as well as any changes that may occur.<\/li>\n \t<li><strong>D \u2013 Deliver a great customer experience<\/strong>. Customer service is not just about providing good service. Rather, it&#8217;s also about delivering an outstanding customer experience!<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#f2f2f2&#8243; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;]<div class=\"iwithtext\"><div class=\"iwt-icon\"> <i class=\"icon-default-style fa fa-lightbulb-o accent-color\"><\/i> <\/div><div class=\"iwt-text\"> \n<h4>Pro Tip: Learn even more about <a href=\"\/2020\/11\/interior-decorating-jobs-how-to-provide-excellent-customer-service\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">how to provide top-notch customer service<\/a> to your design clients!<\/h4>\n <\/div><div class=\"clear\"><\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"20_Terrible_Customer_Service_Mistakes_to_Avoid_Making\"><\/span>20 Terrible Customer Service Mistakes to Avoid Making<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Now let\u2019s take a look at the 20 worst customer service mistakes to avoid as a professional designer:[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #1: Not responding promptly to inquiries or requests.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]This is one of the most common customer service mistakes that designers make. Customers expect their inquiries or requests to be answered promptly, so make sure you respond in a timely manner.\n\nFurthermore, the more efficiently you reply to customers on a regular basis, the better off your business will be&#8230; And this is backed by stats! For example, <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.twitter.com\/en_us\/topics\/insights\/2015\/Consumers-spend-after-positive-customer-service-interaction-on-Twitter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">one such study<\/a> concluded that people are a lot more likely to spend money on a business that gets back to their enquiries faster.\n\nBasically, a quicker response on your end means a higher revenue for your design business. So, a good rule of thumb is to respond to your clients within 24 hours.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #2: Rushing through your interactions with clients.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]This is definitely a customer service mistake that can &#8211; and probably will &#8211; hurt your design business.\n\nWhy?\n\nBecause rushing through your conversations with clients can lead to miscommunication, which can lead to unsatisfied customers. Not to mention, it can also lead to delays in projects, resulting in a loss of revenue.\n\nTherefore, it&#8217;s important to take your time and have meaningful conversations with your customers. This will help ensure that they&#8217;re happy and their needs are being met, while also ensuring that your design projects run smoothly.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #3: Not actually listening to what your customers are saying.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Having active listening skills is paramount in customer service. It\u2019s important to actually take the time to listen to your customers and truly understand their needs. This will not only make them feel heard; it will also help you deliver better solutions to their problems.\n\nRemember: Customer service is all about being attentive and really hearing what it is your customers are saying to you![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #4: Not being proactive enough.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Another customer service mistake that can hurt your design business is not being proactive enough. In other words, taking the time to anticipate and prepare for potential problems, <em>before <\/em>they even happen. This can help you prevent any issues from arising in the first place &#8211; and it&#8217;s especially important when it comes to dealing with difficult customers.\n\nSo, make sure you stay one step ahead and be proactive in your customer service approach. This will help ensure that any issues are addressed quickly and efficiently, while also helping to foster better relationships with your clients.\n\nAnother way to be proactive is to ensure that throughout their design project, they aren&#8217;t having to chase you down for updates! Staying in contact with your clients and providing regular updates is key.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #5: Not asking your customers enough questions.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]During your initial consultation, it\u2019s important to ask questions that will help you gain insights into your customer\u2019s goals, needs, and preferences. This is a great way to get the conversation started on the right foot and ensure their satisfaction with the end result of their design project!\n\nAdditionally, as the project progresses, make sure to check in periodically with your customers. Ask them if everything is going according to plan, if they\u2019re happy with the progress, or if there\u2019s anything you can do to help.\n\nWhen you ask your customers questions, you get an even better understanding of their needs and concerns. In turn, this will also show them that you care about meeting their expectations. And obviously, this is a big step in building trust between you and the client![\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#f2f2f2&#8243; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;]<div class=\"iwithtext\"><div class=\"iwt-icon\"> <i class=\"icon-default-style fa fa-lightbulb-o accent-color\"><\/i> <\/div><div class=\"iwt-text\"> \n<h4>Pro Tip: Not sure which questions to ask during the first client consultation? <a href=\"\/2015\/08\/client-consultation-questions-creating-the-concept\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">This list will help get you started!<\/a><\/h4>\n <\/div><div class=\"clear\"><\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;28877&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #6: Being dishonest.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]When we say this, we literally mean in <em>every <\/em>single aspect. Don\u2019t lie to your customers about the completion date, don&#8217;t over-promise what you can deliver, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/legalblogs\/law-and-life\/plagiarism-5-potential-legal-consequences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">never pass off someone else&#8217;s work as your own<\/a>.\n\nUltimately, being dishonest with your clients will only create mistrust between you and them &#8211; which is the last thing you want! Not to mention, this is a guaranteed way to kill your reputation in the home design industry.\n\nIf you&#8217;re ever in a position where you don&#8217;t know the answer to a client&#8217;s question, can&#8217;t provide what they&#8217;re asking for, etc., just be honest about it. That way, you can work together to find a solution that works for both parties involved.\n\nAt the end of the day, honesty is ALWAYS the best policy![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #7: Your design website is full of misinformation.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Your design website is often the first point of contact for potential customers. As such, it\u2019s important to make sure all the information on there is accurate and up-to-date. If you have outdated and\/or inaccurate information, old pictures, broken links, etc., this will give your customers a negative impression of your business.\n\nFor instance, if your website says you offer services that you don&#8217;t actually provide anymore, this could lead to frustration and confusion for potential customers. Similarly, if you don&#8217;t have any newer portfolio photos, this could lead them to question the quality of your work.\n\nTherefore, we recommend taking some time every month or so to go through your website and make sure everything is up-to-date. Doing this will help ensure that any potential clients get the best possible impression of you, as well as have a great experience navigating your website![\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#f2f2f2&#8243; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;]<div class=\"iwithtext\"><div class=\"iwt-icon\"> <i class=\"icon-default-style fa fa-lightbulb-o accent-color\"><\/i> <\/div><div class=\"iwt-text\"> \n<h4>Pro Tip: Need help building your business website for the first time? <a href=\"\/2014\/09\/building-your-website\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">We&#8217;ve got you covered!<\/a><\/h4>\n <\/div><div class=\"clear\"><\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #8: You never reply to customers on social media.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Social media is an excellent platform to reach out to customers and showcase your work &#8211; so make sure you\u2019re taking advantage of it!\n\nIf someone comments on one of your posts, replies to a tweet, or sends you a direct message, be sure to respond. Even if it\u2019s just a simple \u201cThanks for reaching out!\u201d or \u201cI&#8217;ll get back to you soon\u201d, this will show them that their feedback and questions are important to you.\n\nAdditionally, replying to social media inquiries in a timely manner will also help foster relationships and build trust between you and your customers.\n\nIt&#8217;s also important to remember that responding quickly is essential (as we discussed in customer service mistake #1). If someone has taken the time to reach out, they&#8217;ll likely be expecting a prompt reply![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #9: Not being open to constructive feedback\/criticism.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]In a perfect world, customers would always be 100% satisfied with the work provided to them &#8211; and never have any notes on where you could improve. However, in the real world, customers are likely to provide some feedback or criticism (even if it&#8217;s constructive).\n\nIn these cases, try not to take offense or get defensive. If you get defensive and always respond to constructive criticism negatively, you&#8217;re going to earn a reputation as a designer who&#8217;s impossible to work with. You also won&#8217;t be seen as overly professional.\n\nInstead, be open and willing to listen to their concerns and make adjustments where possible. It\u2019s important to remember that customers\u2019 feedback can often <a href=\"https:\/\/woc.aises.org\/content\/how-benefit-feedback-constructive-and-otherwise\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">help you become a better designer<\/a> &#8211; so make sure you\u2019re taking it in stride.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #10: Being unreachable &#8211; especially during business hours.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Yes, replying back to customers in a timely manner is always important. But if clients are <em>never <\/em>able to get a hold of you immediately during your business hours, this could hurt your credibility as a designer.\n\nIf you&#8217;re always unavailable, customers may start to question your commitment and dedication. They\u2019ll wonder if you&#8217;re reliable enough to work with in the long run. Plus, if you&#8217;re in the middle of their design project and they run into an emergency, they\u2019ll need to be able to get in touch with you quickly.\n\nTo avoid this costly mistake, make sure you have a system in place where customers can reach out during business hours &#8211; whether this is through email, phone, or text. This way, if they need something quickly, they can get in touch with you right away and have their questions answered.\n\nHaving a reliable customer service system in place will go a long way in showing customers that you take their needs seriously and are committed to providing them with the best possible service.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #11: Lacking empathy and patience.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]In terms of customer service mistakes, this one should come as no surprise. After all, customers take time out of their day to reach out and get help. So, make sure you&#8217;re showing them patience and understanding.\n\nTry not to be too quick to judge or jump to conclusions. Instead, show customers that you understand their problem and empathize with them &#8211; even if it&#8217;s something simple like a technical issue or a question about the design process.\n\nAt the end of the day, customers need to feel heard and valued. Thus, showing them some empathy and patience will go a long way in helping to foster positive relationships.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;28879&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #12: Not personalizing your written responses.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Customers WILL be able to tell if you&#8217;re using a script when speaking with them&#8230; And nothing is more annoying for clients than feeling like they&#8217;re speaking to a robot.\n\nWhen responding to customers, make sure your replies are <a href=\"https:\/\/shoutaboutus.com\/blog\/still-using-review-response-templates-heres-why-time-start-personalizing-replies\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">personalized and genuine<\/a>. For starters, avoid generic language. Secondly, always use the customer&#8217;s name (so long as you know it) when writing a reply.\n\nFinally, be sure to use a friendly and conversational tone of voice. Speak to them as you would a friend &#8211; not an automated machine. Doing so will make customers feel more appreciated and respected, which will leave them with a positive impression of you as a designer.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #13: Only providing one channel for support.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Let&#8217;s say your design business only allows customers to contact you by email. Okay, but what if they don&#8217;t have an email address? Or what if their issue is too complex for an email and requires a phone call to discuss?\n\nWhen you limit customers to one form of contact, chances are they&#8217;ll leave feeling frustrated and unappreciated. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s so important to offer omnichannel support &#8211; a.k.a. a place where customers can reach out to you through multiple channels, such as email, live chat, text message, or even social media.\n\nThe benefits to offering omnichannel support are backed by stats, by the way! <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.happyfox.com\/win-at-omnichannel\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">One study by the Aberdeen group<\/a> concluded that businesses with omnichannel support saw a 7.5% increase in first contact resolution. Moreover, these businesses also saw a 9.5% increase in revenue AND an 89% customer retention rate!\n\n(To put this into perspective, businesses that don&#8217;t offer omnichannel support were only recorded at having a 33% customer retention rate.)[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #14: Not delivering the results you promised.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Let&#8217;s imagine that you&#8217;re in the middle of a project and your client isn&#8217;t satisfied with the results. It might be tempting for you to blame them or make excuses as to why the project didn&#8217;t turn out as expected.\n\nHowever, this would be a huge customer service mistake!\n\nWhen customers hire you, they&#8217;re expecting you to deliver what was promised. Not doing so will only hurt your credibility and damage customer loyalty.\n\nSo, when things don&#8217;t go as planned, always be sure to take responsibility and be willing to rework the project. Doing so will ensure your customers are happy with the final results. And in turn, this will show them that you&#8217;re committed to delivering quality service.[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#f2f2f2&#8243; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;]<div class=\"iwithtext\"><div class=\"iwt-icon\"> <i class=\"icon-default-style fa fa-lightbulb-o accent-color\"><\/i> <\/div><div class=\"iwt-text\"> \n<h4>Pro Tip: The best way to consistently deliver the results your clients are expecting? Starting your design career with proper certification training in your field! Check out QC Design School&#8217;s <a href=\"\/online-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">full list of self-paced, online certification courses<\/a> for more info!<\/h4>\n <\/div><div class=\"clear\"><\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #15: Not keeping records of your customer&#8217;s history with your design business.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Do you <a href=\"https:\/\/keap.com\/business-success-blog\/business-management\/how-to-keep-customer-records\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">keep records<\/a> of your customer&#8217;s contact history? If not, this is a massive customer service mistake!\n\nKeeping records of customer interactions, such as emails, phone calls or any other form of contact is important for two reasons:\n\nFirst and foremost, it allows your customer service team to stay up-to-date with customer inquiries and complaints. Secondly, it ensures that customers aren&#8217;t repeating themselves if they need to contact you multiple times throughout the project.\n\nNot to mention, keeping records of customer interactions also helps to improve customer service quality. For example, it allows you to track the time it takes to respond to customer inquiries and complaints, as well as the success rate of resolving customer issues.\n\nAll this to say, make sure you keep records of customer interactions! Doing so will help you to provide better service, plus keep customers happy and loyal in the long run.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #16: Handling negative reviews inappropriately.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]It sucks, but the reality is, your design business will probably get at least one bad review over the course of your career. Unfortunately, most people only post reviews when they&#8217;re angry. Therefore, it&#8217;s important to handle negative reviews with care and empathy.\n\nHere are a few tips to help you do just that:\n<ul>\n \t<li>Always respond quickly! If a customer posts a negative review, try to respond within 24 hours.<\/li>\n \t<li>Try to understand the customer&#8217;s point of view! Put yourself in their shoes and try to see things from their perspective.<\/li>\n \t<li>Apologize for any inconvenience caused! Even if you don&#8217;t agree with the customer&#8217;s point of view, apologizing will show them that you care and want to make it right.<\/li>\n \t<li>Offer a solution! Try to provide the customer with an agreeable resolution to their problem and keep them in the loop as you work to resolve it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAs unpleasant as negative reviews may be, they often provide valuable feedback that can help you improve your customer service in the future. Not to mention, future customers <em>will <\/em>be looking at these reviews &#8211; and your replies to them. Meaning, they&#8217;ll be able to tell if you take customer complaints seriously or not.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;28881&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #17: Not paying attention to customer behavior.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Do you pay attention to your customer&#8217;s buying habits and behaviors? If not, you&#8217;re missing out on a great opportunity to improve your customer service!\n\nBy tracking customer behaviors &#8211; such as what products they buy, how often they purchase from you, and what type of feedback they provide &#8211; you&#8217;ll be able to better understand their needs and wants.\n\nThis, in turn, will give you the information needed to tailor your customer service strategy and provide a more personal experience.\n\nFor example, if you notice that a particular customer comes to you for the same design services every few months, you may be able to offer them a discounted rate or special perks. This shows that you are paying attention to their needs and appreciate their loyalty.\n\nSo, pay attention to customer behavior and use it to customize your customer service strategy. Doing so will go a long way in showing customers that you value their business and are willing to go the extra mile for them.[\/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner column_margin=&#8221;default&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221;][vc_column_inner column_padding=&#8221;padding-3-percent&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color=&#8221;#f2f2f2&#8243; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; top_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; bottom_margin=&#8221;30&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;]<div class=\"iwithtext\"><div class=\"iwt-icon\"> <i class=\"icon-default-style fa fa-lightbulb-o accent-color\"><\/i> <\/div><div class=\"iwt-text\"> \n<h4>Related: New to the world of professional home design and need help finding clients? Here are <a href=\"\/2021\/11\/17-ways-to-get-clients-as-an-interior-decorator\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">17 strategies<\/a> YOU can use today!<\/h4>\n <\/div><div class=\"clear\"><\/div><\/div>[\/vc_column_inner][\/vc_row_inner][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #18: Not educating customers when necessary\/beneficial.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Your customers are relying on you to provide them with the knowledge and information they need. That&#8217;s why it&#8217;s important for your customer service team to be able to educate customers when necessary.\n\nFor instance, let&#8217;s say a customer is having difficulty understanding how certain features work or what type of design service they need&#8230; You and\/or your team should be able to provide them with detailed but easy-to-understand answers!\n\nSometimes, simply providing customers with a tutorial video or step-by-step guide can go a long way in helping them get the information they need. Not to mention, it will also make you and your team look more credible and trustworthy.\n\nSo, make sure to educate customers when necessary and beneficial. It will help ensure that they get the answers they need and will also strengthen your customer service strategies in the long run.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #19: Failing to follow up.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Failing to follow up with customers is one of the worst customer service mistakes you can make &#8211; hands down! Not only does it show customers that you don&#8217;t care about their concerns, but it will also create a negative impression of your business.\n\nTherefore, it&#8217;s important to make a habit of following up with customers after each interaction &#8211; regardless of whether the interaction was good or bad. Even if it&#8217;s just a simple &#8220;how are you doing?&#8221; or &#8220;was there anything else I can help you with?&#8221; This will show customers that you care about their needs and wants and are willing to go the extra mile for them.\n\nFinally (and as we mentioned in Mistake #15), make sure to document all customer interactions in your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessnewsdaily.com\/7839-best-crm-software.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">CRM software<\/a>. This will make it easier for you and your team to follow up with customers in the future.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Mistake #20: Not taking the opportunity to analyze your data.<\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Data analysis is one of the most powerful tools a home designer can use to improve their customer service strategies! By taking advantage of data analytics, you can uncover valuable insights into customer behavior, buying habits, and more.\n\nThis will give you the information needed to tailor your customer service strategies, such as providing personalized offers, discounts, or perks. Ultimately, it will help you create a more positive customer experience.\n\nPlus, data analytics can also help you identify areas of improvement &#8211; such as customer service processes and policies.\n\nSo, what sort of data should you be regularly analyzing?\n<ul>\n \t<li>Customer feedback;<\/li>\n \t<li>Client preferences;<\/li>\n \t<li>And customer purchase\/service history with your design business.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAll of these data points can provide you with the information needed to improve your customer service strategies and create a better customer experience![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]Let&#8217;s wrap things up by addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about customer service mistakes&#8230;[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>Q: How do you handle customer service mistakes once they&#8217;ve already been made?<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]A: The best way to handle customer service mistakes is to apologize as quickly and sincerely as possible. Take ownership of the mistake, explain how you plan to fix it, and be sure to offer a solution. This will go a long way in restoring trust and creating a more positive customer experience![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>Q: What are 3 causes of customer service failure?<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]A: Three primary causes of customer service failure are:\n<ol>\n \t<li>A lack of empathy;<\/li>\n \t<li>Poor communication;<\/li>\n \t<li>And inadequate training.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>Q: What are 3 common customer service problems?<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]A: Three common customer service problems are:\n<ol>\n \t<li>Unresponsive customer service representatives;<\/li>\n \t<li>Long wait times for assistance;<\/li>\n \t<li>And difficulty navigating the customer service process.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>Q: What are the 3 categories of common mistake?<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]A: The three categories of common mistake are the:\n<ol>\n \t<li>&#8220;Unilateral mistake&#8221; &#8211; when one party misinterprets or misunderstands something;<\/li>\n \t<li>&#8220;Mutual mistake&#8221; &#8211; when both parties are mistaken about the same material fact (e.g. signing a contract with incorrect information, such as the budget for the design project);<\/li>\n \t<li>And the &#8220;common mistake&#8221; &#8211; when both parties share the same mistaken belief of the facts (e.g. both parties mistakenly believe they have the same opinion on a matter).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>Q: What are the things that need to be checked to avoid mistakes in customer service?<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]A: To avoid mistakes in customer service, you should check:\n<ul>\n \t<li>Your customer service processes;<\/li>\n \t<li>The tone of your interactions with customers;<\/li>\n \t<li>The empathy and understanding you demonstrate;<\/li>\n \t<li>And the clarity of your communications.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nBy focusing on these four aspects, you can ensure that you&#8217;re providing the best service possible and avoiding any customer service mistakes.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h4>Q: What is the MOST important aspect in delivering great customer service?<\/h4>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]A: The most important aspect of delivering great customer service is empathy. Empathy is essential in understanding and responding to customers&#8217; needs, wants, and expectations. Furthermore, it helps build trust and loyalty with customers &#8211; both of which are important for long-term success in the design business.[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][image_with_animation image_url=&#8221;28883&#8243; alignment=&#8221;&#8221; animation=&#8221;None&#8221; border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; box_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; max_width=&#8221;100%&#8221;][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221; shape_type=&#8221;&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Closing_Thoughts\"><\/span>Closing Thoughts<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n[\/vc_column_text][divider line_type=&#8221;No Line&#8221; custom_height=&#8221;30&#8243;][vc_column_text]As a home designer, it is essential to provide exceptional customer service &#8211; and avoiding common mistakes is key!\n\nWe&#8217;ve outlined 20 of the worst customer service mistakes to avoid, as well as the data you need to analyze and the questions you should be asking. Customer service mistakes can cost you customers, money, and reputation. So, use this guide to stay on top of your customer service game!\n\nGot any questions, comments, or additional tips\/mistakes to add to our list?\n\nDrop them in the comments below. We always love to hear from you!\n\nHappy designing &#8211; and thanks for reading![\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row][vc_row type=&#8221;in_container&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column column_padding=&#8221;no-extra-padding&#8221; column_padding_position=&#8221;all&#8221; background_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; background_hover_color_opacity=&#8221;1&#8243; column_link_target=&#8221;_self&#8221; column_shadow=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_radius=&#8221;none&#8221; width=&#8221;1\/1&#8243; tablet_width_inherit=&#8221;default&#8221; tablet_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; phone_text_alignment=&#8221;default&#8221; column_border_width=&#8221;none&#8221; column_border_style=&#8221;solid&#8221; bg_image_animation=&#8221;none&#8221;][vc_column_text]\n<h3>Become a professionally-trained, internationally-certified home designer in as little as 12 short weeks! <a href=\"https:\/\/enroll.qcdesignschool.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Enroll with QC Design School and start your dream career today!<\/a><\/h3>\n[\/vc_column_text][\/vc_column][\/vc_row]","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"[vc_row type=&#8221;full_width_content&#8221; full_screen_row_position=&#8221;middle&#8221; scene_position=&#8221;center&#8221; text_color=&#8221;dark&#8221; text_align=&#8221;left&#8221; top_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; bottom_padding=&#8221;2%&#8221; overlay_strength=&#8221;0.3&#8243; shape_divider_position=&#8221;bottom&#8221;&#8230;","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":28873,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[40,422,4],"tags":[461,39,395,462,463,41,464,44,465,46],"ppma_author":[510],"class_list":{"0":"post-28872","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-business-advice","8":"category-career-advice","9":"category-your-design-career","10":"tag-best-practices","11":"tag-business-advice","12":"tag-career-advice","13":"tag-customer-service","14":"tag-customer-service-mistakes","15":"tag-home-designer","16":"tag-mistakes-to-avoid","17":"tag-professional-designer","18":"tag-service-and-support","19":"tag-your-design-career"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.7 (Yoast SEO v26.7) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>20 Customer Service Mistakes That&#039;ll Hurt Your Design Career<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Great customer service is a must for any successful home designer. 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