Smart Strategies for Delivering 5-Star Customer Service

Every customer deserves the highest-quality service. Here's how to give it.

A business would be nowhere without its customers. After all, they drive the sales. That's why it's important to prioritize customer satisfaction and maintain an authentic relationship with your audience. If a customer has a bad experience, it's your responsibility to make it right, and if they have questions or concerns, it's on you to support them in any way you can.

We asked a group of successful entrepreneurs to share their strategies for achieving 5-star customer service. Follow their tips to create an experience your customers will never forget.

Focus on keeping your staff happy first.

Great customer service begins with a great workplace experience. In fact, Jennifer A. Barnes, founder and CEO of Optima Office, Inc, says her company's motto has always been, "happy staff equals happy clients."

"We've created an exceptional work environment with great benefits, flexible hours and a culture of trust and respect for our employees," Barnes says. "Five-star customer service starts with having happy, supported employees."

Read all 8 opinions expressed at Inc.com