30 VIP Service Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our VIP Service interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view six answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. VIP customer service relies on consistent brand voice and tone. Are you familiar with our company's brand? How would you describe our brand voice?
How to Answer
The hiring authority is looking for evidence that you have researched their brand, including voice and tone. You can find this information by researching the company online, reading reviews, and familiarizing yourself with the organizations' mission statement. Talk to the interviewer about what you know regarding their brand's voice and tone and how it relates to their customer service provision. Be sure to finish your response with a qualifying statement regarding how your customer service approach will align nicely with that of the company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I have spent a great deal of time familiarizing myself with your company and its approach to customer service. I noticed a common thread of customer appreciation, helpfulness, and innovation in service. The fact that your organization was one of the first in its industryto introduce chatbots for service online is just one example of the way you have introduced innovation into your approach to customer service. I am eager to join your organization, and rest assured will carefully support your mission, vision, and brand voice."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
2. Tell me about the latest customer service skill you learned or improved on.
How to Answer
As a VIP service provider, you must be eager and willing to learn new customer service skills. Showcasing your desire to learn and grow is an excellent way to stand out from the competition during your interview. New skills related to customer service can range from linguistics in communication, to software capabilities. If there is a skill that you want to learn, and have not yet taken advantage of, you can mention your interest to the hiring authority. Perhaps they offer specialized training opportunities in this topic of interest.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"The last customer service skill that I have worked on is the use of positive language through every customer interaction. This mindset shift has allowed me to turn unhappy customers into customers who spend more, and also give valuable referrals. When I deliver ultimate customer service, more people talk about our company, and therefore we become more profitable. In the future, I would like to learn more about how to best leverage a CRM and its functions to provide more personalized customer experiences."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
3. How would you deliver the best service to a customer who you found difficult to understand due to a language barrier?
How to Answer
Our world is diverse, and many companies cater to customers from all over the globe. This factor means that you are likely to experience a communication barrier from time to time. The interviewer wants to know that you will stick to delivering the ultimate customer experience no matter what the obstacle. Clear communication can be achieved by the use of simple-to-understand language, repeating the essential parts of the conversation, or even using visuals whenever possible. Show the hiring authority that you will remain respectful and patient no matter what type of communication roadblock you may come across.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I have worked with clients all over the world and fully believe that everyone deserves to receive the VIP service experience no matter what kind of communication roadblock may be present. Through my retail career, I spoke to many people whose native language is not my own. In those instances, I would slow the conversation down and then follow up with a recap to ensure clarity. In my current role, if I have a customer who is challenging to understand, I will send them our new customer questionnaire and ask them to fill it out at their own pace. By allowing my customers the room to think, I am giving them space to communicate their needs. This added time and reduction of pressure can create a much clearer working relationship and shows the customer that I care about their entire experience."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
4. What characteristics do you possess that would convince me you are capable of delivering VIP-level service to our customer base?
How to Answer
A loaded question like this one means that it's time to qualify yourself as the best candidate for the job! Rather than thinking about the cliche characteristics that make you a nice person in general, think about the traits that align best with the position at hand. Also, think about features that will stand out from the typical answer that most other candidates would provide. Your response will show the interviewer how well-versed you are in the expectations of VIP-level customer service and also how much you know about their organizations' goals and overall client approach.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I have found that the clients who expect VIP-level service are the ones who appreciate a 'can-do' attitude at every interaction. One stand-out characteristic I possess is that I approach every situation by asking, 'How can I make this happen?' Most people approach problems from the position of, 'This won't work because...' and then they insert their excuse. I have researched your company extensively and know what sets you apart from your competitors. Primarily, this organization is innovative when it comes to pleasing its valued customers. Should I be hired, I will continue to apply my creative thinking and entrepreneurial spirit with each unique customer interaction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
5. Talk to me about one customer engagement strategy that you rely on most often in your current position.
How to Answer
As a VIP service provider, you know that customer engagement means encouraging conversation, feedback, and delivering personalized experiences to your clients. Some customer engagement strategies include creating VIP customer promotions or loyalty programs, utilizing social media as a service rather than just a brand platform, or even the creation of easy to access content that addresses frequently asked questions from your customer base. Share with the interviewer the types of customer engagement strategies you have experienced in, and which method you prefer or use most frequently in your current job.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"There are many ways to deliver VIP service through supreme customer engagement strategies. One of my favorite approaches includes implementing ways to deliver speedy responses to customer inquiries. I have encouraged my team to reply in under 6 minutes to all customer calls, emails, and web or social media inquiries. People are no longer willing to wait 48 hours for an answer, and they shouldn't have to with all the tech available to service-based businesses today. Speed is critical and, in my opinion, the foundation for delivering all other VIP level service initiatives."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
6. Tell me about a time you continued to deliver VIP service to a customer who was rude to you.
How to Answer
Delivering the ultimate level of customer service does not stop when the customer is not friendly in return. Working in the customer service industry, you will encounter rude individuals from time to time. Seeing as it's an unavoidable reality, the interviewer wants to know that you can approach this type of situation with utmost poise and professionalism.
Think of a time that you had to deal with a challenging customer situation. Try answering this behavioral-based question using the STAR method, which is an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. Sticking to this framework will help you keep your answer organized and will ensure that you provide the necessary story details. Then, you can wrap up your example with a solid qualifying statement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"(Situation) Recently, a customer came into our location visibly annoyed, and acting rudely by speaking loudly and interrupting the sales associates. (Task) As the customer service manager, it is up to me to face the situation and diffuse the issue. (Action) Taking a classy, helpful, yet forthright approach, I pulled the customer aside and used constructive communication methods to get to the heart of the situation. These communication methods included using 'I' language rather than 'you' language. I also focused on the problem rather than the person and paid close attention to the customers' body language, ensuring that I respected boundaries. (Result) In the end, the customer thanked me for taking the time to listen. He admitted that, although he was not happy with his product purchase, he could not deny that our service level was fantastic. (Qualifying Statement) This type of approach is constructive in dealing with upset customers and the public in general. I am fully aware that a rude customer is usually angry with the situation and not with me, specifically. I will always go out of my way to ensure that a customer is happy before our interaction is over."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
7. Have you ever bent company policy in the name of customer service?
How to Answer
Bending policy in the name of customer service may be an accepted practice, or not accepted at all, depending on the culture and mindset of the employing company. Often, organizations are okay with you bending the rules to keep a customer happy. You need to know your audience, though! If the hiring company is very stringent when it comes to their policies and procedures, then approach this question with caution. If the organization is well known for being flexible, then you can indeed be more open with your response.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I believe that delivering VIP level customer service is all about policy ebb and flow. No customer is the same, and everyone has unique needs, which is why companies often need to consider changing or bending particular policies to ensure this VIP delivery. So long as safety is never compromised or the company's bottom line does not suffer, it's important to be flexible to meet the needs of a customer. One factor that attracted me to your organization was the flexible language offered to the customer. This flex allows your customers to feel that their business is appreciated, and they are safe to make purchases knowing that you care about their overall experience."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
8. Talk about a time when you received exceptional VIP customer service. What made the experience stand out?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear your excitement when it comes to being the recipient of excellent customer service. The way you answer this question will show the interviewer that you are well aware of the difference between average and VIP-level service! Explain the situation, describing what stood out to you, and what you did to express your thankfulness for the stand-out service.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"Recently, I went to Store ABC to look for a particular pair of shoes that I saw in their online store. However, it turned out they did not have my size at their location. The salesperson immediately offered to order the shoes for me from another location and had them shipped to my house. This service stood out to me as over and above, considering most brick and mortar retail stores tell you to check out their other location, forcing the customer to do the legwork. I expressed my appreciation by getting the associates' name and sending an email of praise to her manager later that day."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
9. How do you feel about promoting or up-selling a product during a customer service based interaction?
How to Answer
Delivering VIP level customer service does not mean pushing sales; however, it may mean that you actively present the best solution for your customers. The interviewer wants to know that you would be comfortable taking a customer interaction and turning it into a sales opportunity should the vibe be right. If you have a specific example of a time when you made this happen, this is an excellent opportunity to paint a picture of your skills in action. Be sure to mention any sales training that you have received.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"As a customer-service focused professional, I have a natural inclination to take a clients' pain point or need and turn it into an opportunity to help them through a service or product offering. For that reason, I consider every customer interaction an opportunity to present a product or service. Its important to me that my valued customers are aware of the great products and services available to them. I am happy to make suggestions that I believe will benefit their lives."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
10. Have you ever received a negative customer service review? If so, how did you handle the situation?
How to Answer
Realistically, it's near impossible to keep 100% of clients happy 100% of the time. The hiring authority knows this, so by no means is there an expectation for you to say that you have never had a hiccup with a client.
Most people have had a negative review or constructive comment from a client at some point in their career. What the interviewer would like to see is that you can bounce back professionally from this type of situation and move forward on a positive note. Discuss what you were able to learn from the experience overall.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"Negative customer reviews are great learning opportunities. I had a client recently comment to my manager that I wasn't knowledgable enough on a particular service we had just rolled out. I knew that I could do more to learn the ins and outs of the service, so I spent my weekend studying and learning every small detail. I wanted to make sure that no other customer felt that I lacked knowledge or confidence in this new rollout. My manager greatly appreciated the additional effort that I put in to learn the details of the new service."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
11. Have you ever worked with a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system or any other enterprise software?
How to Answer
Think back to any systems or software that you have used and learned in your current and previous roles. If you have a robust work history, before your interview, try to jot down the names of all software and programs that you have used in your current and previous roles. Be prepared to discuss the details of these programs. Include program names, the extent of your knowledge, and which functions you have utilized the most.
Some popular CRM's and enterprise software include SalesForce, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle NetSuite, and Zoho. If you are not sure which CRM or enterprise software the hiring company uses, this is a great time to ask. If you know what systems the company is using, be sure to address these when tailoring your response.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"Currently, I use NetSuite and have around five years' experience using multiple facets of the system which allows me to upsell and cross-sell effectively by tailoring my recommendations to my clients' needs and past behaviors. This system allows me to deliver the ultimate service because my client conversations are always on point and highly targeted. In my previous roles, I used Microsoft Dynamics, which is also a highly effective system. Could you share with me the systems in place with your organization? I am a quick study and am confident I could learn to navigate your system in no time."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
12. How could an online-based company, with no face-to-face customer interaction, still surprise and delight its customers?
How to Answer
In the ever-changing world of sales and service, many companies now lean on their website or other online offerings to act as a 24/7 salesperson. With these online factors now representing a company's brand and client experience, service levels must remain top of mind. Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you believe an online-based company could still thrill its customer base. In your response, show your passion for VIP service and let your creativity shine.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"Recent studies have shown that customers no longer base their loyalty on price or product. Instead, they anchor their brand loyalty according to the experiences that they receive. Nearly 90% of buyers polled would pay more for a product or service if they received an exceptional customer experience. I believe this experience should wholeheartedly apply to face-to-face as well as online experiences. One suggestion I have, to surprise and delight customers, is to leverage web-based chatbots. Many companies already use chatbots, however, not to the best of their capabilities. Some options could include ensuring that the 'voice' of your chatbot matches the level of empathy that the company feels is appropriate for a customer-based interaction. This idea goes so far as to ensure that the chatbot language perfectly matches the organizations' brand voice. I believe there is a lot more we can do to personalize and customize the customers' online experience, and I have many more ideas in mind."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
13. Walk me through your training in customer experience and service.
How to Answer
Take your time to explain your customer service related training. This training may be formal or informal. It could include post-secondary education, on-the-job-training, or even self-learning initiatives. Perhaps a previous company provided you with exceptional training during your onboarding, or maybe your current company encourages continued education by paying for you to attend workshops and conferences. Or perhaps you read books or listen to podcasts related to sales and service in your spare time. Whatever your level of training, show the interviewer that you have an interest in learning all about the delivery of VIP customer service.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I have worked for a couple of renowned luxury brands and was fortunate to receive the highest standard training related to exceptional customer service. I have received training on uncovering specific customer needs, recognizing social cues, and demonstrating confidence as a problem solver. In my current role, I now train all new sales employees on the fundamentals of customer excellence, including building rapport, active listening, and identifying opportunities to exceed expectations. I do not stop there, however. I am an avid reader and listen to related podcasts every day, including, 'The VIP Customer Experience Podcast.' I have learned a great deal about the importance of restoring the personal touch throughout the customer lifecycle."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
14. Our customer service offering is legendary. How will you contribute to this high standard?
How to Answer
The hiring authority would like to see specific details on the ways that you plan to contribute to the exceptional customer service the hiring company already provides. Begin your response by showing the interviewer that you recognize their exceptionally high service standard. Provide an example of the company's service in action, showing that you are familiar with their brand and efforts. Next, show that you are ready to be an active contributor, should you be hired.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"There are a few ways that I plan to contribute to your VIP standard of service. First, I plan to emulate your company's voice and tone throughout every customer interaction. I will do this by ensuring that I have your company's ethos committed to memory before my start date. Second, I will deliver customer expectations with a focus on consistency. Consistency makes customers feel comfortable, and a comfortable customer will become more loyal. I will also remove any points of friction that I can throughout the customer journey by providing efficient, helpful service."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
15. How can a company create a VIP customer experience even if they are not a luxury brand?
How to Answer
Luxury brands spend a great deal of time and resources working on perfecting their VIP customer service delivery. Luckily, with all of the new and affordable digital tools available, many brands of today have great opportunities to deliver luxury customer experiences. These efforts may include experiential shopping experiences, such as VIP events. Another example of VIP experience is premium personalization in the products or services offered.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I believe that the simplest and most affordable way for a company to act as a VIP luxury service is through ultimate customer personalization efforts. We can easily discover and deliver customers' desires for options and tailor their experiences through analytics and segmentation. When a customer shares information about themselves or their preferences, a company can segment them into a particular buyer group, allowing this personalization to take place. This personalization can happen in-store, online, and even through email. These efforts can make customers feel seen, listened to, and valued."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
16. What methods do you use to collect feedback regarding customer satisfaction?
How to Answer
Customer feedback consists of input and insights from your client base when it comes to your service, product, or company in general. Customer feedback is an essential factor in delivering VIP service. If you aren't sure which efforts are working or not working, it's tough to know where to pivot or where to dig in further.
The interviewer wants to see that you understand the value of customer feedback. Show your enthusiasm for collecting and implementing feedback. Discuss some of the ways that our current employer receives customer feedback. If you have initiated any of these feedback collection efforts, be sure to mention the fact.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"When I began working with my current company, they did the minimum when it came to asking for customer feedback. I believe that feedback is a powerful guide for businesses. Feedback allows me to take a proactive approach with delivering VIP service. It ensures that I stay tuned into the needs of my customers regularly. For these reasons, I introduced my organization to customer surveys via SurveyMonkey. I also worked with our web developer to imbed the capability for instant customer feedback from the website. Since implementing these initiatives, we receive around 100 pieces of feedback per month. These submissions range from happy to disgruntled customers and have provided a great amount of insight. We currently have changes in motion in numerous areas thanks to this helpful customer feedback."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
17. In your opinion, how does product knowledge fit into delivering VIP customer service?
How to Answer
Product knowledge is an incredibly important part of delivering VIP customer service. The interviewer wants to see that you understand the ways that product knowledge will boost the overall customer experience. When you are committed to your company's offering, this passion will show in every customer interaction. In turn, this can lead to more significant sales and higher levels of customer satisfaction. Another great factor that comes with strong product knowledge is that it will be easier to provide more customized recommendations and solutions to your customers.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"Every customer interaction should be positive and memorable, and that includes understanding your company's product and service offerings inside out. Not only does this knowledge build confidence with your customer, but it also enhances the customer relationship, which leads to further loyalty. I have already begun learning about your products and look forward to more formal training so that I can pass along my solid product knowledge in each customer interaction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
18. How have you built customer loyalty in previous positions?
How to Answer
The hiring authority is asking for you to provide concrete examples of your contributions to customer loyalty and customer experience. Customer loyalty, at its simplest, can be built through excellent communication efforts. Other ways to build customer loyalty may include creating a robust loyalty program, offering flexible plans and payments, and providing perks to your most loyal customers. Share your passion for nurturing the loyalty of your customers.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"Customer loyalty is incredibly important and a great way to show VIP level service. In my current role, I helped to create a guest loyalty program that offered small perks such as discounts and upgrades based on customer spend. Another way that I ensure customer loyalty is through stand-out service. In turn, these customers will tell their friends and family about their experience, and that can mean a boost in business and even more loyal customers."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
19. What are your motivating factors when it comes to delivering VIP level customer service?
How to Answer
The hiring authority wants to know what motivates you to deliver the ultimate in customer care. Similar to a question regarding your customer service philosophy, the interviewer wants to see that you are well motivated to support your customers and their needs. Some motivating factors could include your desire for team spirit, healthy social interactions, being a person who is helpful to others, or the desire to see your company succeed so that you can succeed as well. Deliver a positive response with energy and enthusiasm.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I naturally enjoy helping people and creating solutions to problems every day. Because of these characteristics, I am genuinely motivated and driven through problem-solving and behind helpful. I understand that when my company is successful, I am also successful. For all of these reasons, I do my best to ensure that I deliver VIP service with every customer interaction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
20. Tell me about the most challenging customer service situation you have encountered. What made this situation so difficult, and what did you learn?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to hear you tell a story about a time when you had to undertake an unusual customer service challenge. Avoid speaking negatively about any customers, supervisors, or past employers. Stick to facts such as what the problem was, what action steps you took to ensure your success, and what the result was in the end.
Since this question is a 'Tell me about a time' query, try to approach your response using the STAR method, which is Situation, Task, Action, Result. This framework will keep your story on track and ensure that you provide the details that an interviewer will need to assess you in this behavioral-based question.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"(Situation) I turned an angry customer around just yesterday. They were not happy with the pricing that we provided. (Task) I do not set the pricing, but as the customer service lead, I can ask for some flexibility when it comes to negotiations. (Action) I asked the client what they felt was fair, and we began negotiating from that starting point. I let them know that we are happy to be flexible to keep their business but do not offer steep discounts because our product is the best in the market. (Result) In the end, the customer was happy with the small amount of flexibility I was allowed to give, and I was pleased to have the opportunity to stick by the integrity of our product and service."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
21. We actively prepare our employees for growth as they show potential. In what ways are you interested in growing within our organization?
How to Answer
Employers who work hard to help their employees grow are the best kind of organizations! The hiring authority wants to know about your dreams and aspirations when it comes to the ways that you can climb the ladder within their company. When you think about your future growth, what comes to mind? Openly share with the interviewer where you'd like to see this job take you. Be sure to include how they can support you in your efforts.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I have some big career aspirations, and I would love to see the support of management when it comes to extended training opportunities. After researching your organization and learning more about the growth opportunities that your company offers, I am confident that I will see my future aspirations come to fruition with your company. I would love to be promoted based on my hard work and results, eventually managing a branch, then becoming a regional customer service manager."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
22. What is your customer service philosophy, and how does it align with our company mission and core values?
How to Answer
A customer service philosophy refers to the way that you approach supporting your customers and their needs. The interviewer wants to see that since you are a VIP service provider who takes their work and professionalism seriously. How you approach your customers will be a significant factor for the interviewer when determining your fit with their organization. Just like a company will have a value and mission statement, so should you when it comes to your service standards. Your philosophy can be a quote that resonates with you or a list of service values that are important to you. Be sure that your customer service philosophy aligns nicely with the goals of the interviewing company.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I live by the quote from Scott Cook, 'Instead of focusing on the competition, focus on the customer.' I sum up my customer service philosophy as delivering the ultimate customer focus at all times. I avoid focusing on distractions, problems, or why something cannot be done. Instead, I focus on how I can deliver my customers' needs. I feel this philosophy aligns well with your organizations' mission statements, which is based on customer-centric service."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
23. Discuss a time you went far beyond expectations to ensure customer satisfaction.
How to Answer
VIP customer service means delivering your absolute best 100% of the time. The interviewer does not want to hear you say that you give excellent service; they want a specific example of a time when your exceptional service standards were in full swing.
Use the STAR method when answering a behavioral-based question asking for a 'time when.' The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) allows you to keep your example story well organized and on point. Be sure to provide a memorable response. This question offers you an excellent opportunity to be a stand-out VIP Service candidate!
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"(Situation) While employed with ABC Luxury Hotels, I worked at the concierge desk as a team leader. (Task) The concierge department was tasked with delivering unforgettable customer moments. To encourage this practice, we were given a weekly budget specifically used for making guests' time with us feel like the real VIP experience. I recall one couple in specific who left their phone and laptop chargers in the room after they checked out. (Action) I jumped into action and, using a portion of this allotted budget; I same-day couriered the items to their home with a friendly and personalized note. (Result) It felt great to deliver that added touch, and the guest called our hotel manager the next day praising my efforts."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
24. As a VIP customer service provider, you must be professional at all times. Tell me about a time you remained professional and poised even when it was challenging to do so.
How to Answer
As a VIP service provider, you must remain composed at all times. Your desire as a service provider should be to alleviate stress from others. Therefore, if you react poorly in certain situations, that is counterintuitive behavior. Assure the interviewer that you can handle a tough customer situation with professionalism and class.
When addressing a 'Tell me about a time' style question, the interviewer is expecting you to walk them through a real-life example. Craft your story using the STAR method, an acronym for Situation, Task, Action, Result. This method will help you to keep your answer on track, organized, and detailed. You can then complete your answer with a final qualifying statement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"(Situation) While working at Hotel ABC, a guests' Towncar service did not show up, and he was running behind for a meeting. He was visibly upset and yelling at the front desk representative, causing quite the scene. (Task) As the Hotel Service Manager, I knew that I needed to jump into action. (Action) I quickly arranged for a private Towncar service. The driver arrived within 5 minutes, was very professional, and got him to his meeting as quickly as possible. Of course, this service was at no charge to the guest. (Result) Later that day, the guest personally thanked me for understanding his situation, and he even ended up apologizing for his behavior earlier in the day. (Qualifying Statement) In my many years as a VIP service provider, I have seen my share of unpleasant clients. I like solving urgent problems for others, which is one reason I have been so successful as a top-notch service provider all these years."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
25. With which customer demographics do you bring the most experience?
How to Answer
As a VIP service provider, it's likely that you have worked for a range of clients with average to high-profile needs and expectations. Take the time to illustrate for the interviewer the various customer demographics you have worked alongside. Draw from an example in your current or previous job that correctly demonstrates your level of comfortability with this particular demographic. When choosing your focus, be sure to tie the line between your experiences and the needs of the hiring company (and their target customer demographic).
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"My current company serves many noteworthy and distinguished clients out of New York City. This customer demographic has represented the bulk of our business for many years. To meet the needs of this demographic, I have been trained extensively on how to handle complex requests quickly while providing VIP service at every customer touchpoint. I find that, often, success comes down to dressing the part and being a well-polished communicator. Since your company's target audience seems to be high-end consumers, I am confident in my ability to meet the discerning needs of your clients immediately."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
26. Tell me about a time you received unsatisfactory customer service. What would you have changed about the experience?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear you discuss a time when you experienced customer service that was not up to your standard. Your response will show the interviewer that you are well aware of the difference between poor service and VIP level service.
Walk the interviewer through the overall situation, and talk about what you would have changed about the experience. This question is not an opportunity to bash a company or person; use this as a chance to highlight your customer service knowledge and passion.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I had a vehicle shopping experience recently, and as you may already know, there is a considerable variety of approaches when it comes to car sales professionals. The first dealership I went to, I could see a few salespeople chatting in the showroom, yet nobody bothered to approach me even to say hello. It was like I was invisible! Working in the service industry myself, I knew that if this were my first experience, the tone would likely continue throughout my customer journey with that dealership. I ended up buying an SUV from a small family-owned dealership where they listened to me and got to know what kind of vehicle would suit my lifestyle, taste, and budget. If it were up to me to make a change for that first dealership, I would train the sales staff on the importance of a memorable and positive first impression."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
27. Name a brand that you admire when it comes to VIP level customer service. What do you find impressive about the brands' approach?
How to Answer
Think to a time that you received exceptional service, whether it be in-person or during an online transaction. What did this particular company or brand do to ensure the experience made you feel like a VIP? Discuss your experience with the interviewer, outlining the steps that the company took to impress you the most. Talk about your biggest takeaway from this experience, and how you could apply this approach in the future.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"One brand that I follow closely, and one that has always impressed me with their service offering, is Starbucks. No matter where in the world I go for a Starbucks coffee, my experience is consistent. The vibe is on point, the service is fast and friendly, and the company offers endless opportunities to streamline customer transactions. These streamlined transaction efforts range from preloaded cards to the Starbucks rewards app. From studying the Starbucks approach, I think it's safe to say that VIP service begins with a consistent brand voice and finding opportunities to make your customers' everyday tasks a wee bit easier."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
28. Name one way that you could ensure VIP service through more personalized customer experience.
How to Answer
Today, clients crave a personalized experience, and they look for this customization with every interaction. The hiring authority wants to see that you understand the importance of delivering this personalized experience as part of an overall VIP service feel. Think of one way that you could deliver a truly personalized experience to a customer. Deliver your answer with creativity and enthusiasm, showing that you understand how customers play into your overall success story as a VIP service professional.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I was reading up on a fascinating service idea that I think could be executed very well at your company, considering your brand voice and customer journey. To create personalized responses to particular online queries, we could send a quick 15-second personalized video response via Facebook Messenger or even email. In these quick videos, we could address the customer by name, and respond directly to their question. Yes, this takes more effort, but it adds a personalized element that most companies would never take the time to do."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
29. How would you measure exceptional customer service compared to average service?
How to Answer
As a VIP service provider, the interviewer wants to know that you can quantify exceptional customer service and differentiate it from the 'norm' that customers are so accustomed to receiving. Many parts of a customer service delivery or offering are tough to measure. There are, however, indicators to success. These indicators include repeat customers, survey results, consistency of referrals from existing customers, sales numbers, reviews, and competitor benchmarking. With a multitude of metrics available to you, talk to the interviewer about how you go about measuring exceptional service.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"I believe there are plenty of indicators available that can tell me if I am delivering average service or if I am giving my customers the VIP experience they deserve. First, I look for the number of customers who come from a referral source. I enjoy this quote from Jim Rohn, where he says, 'one customer, well taken care of, could be more valuable than $10,000 worth of advertising.' I wholeheartedly agree with this sentiment and believe that's just one reason why client referrals are incredibly important to track. Another way that I like to measure exceptional service is through open conversation. Our company puts out customer satisfaction surveys after every transaction, and I appreciate the insight that these surveys offer. Can you share with me how your company measures client satisfaction?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
30. What does VIP customer service mean to you?
How to Answer
VIP customer service goes far beyond the minimal job expectations. It's more than a friendly hello, and 'how can I help you?' VIP service means going out of your way to deliver exceptional service far beyond typical customer standards.
When providing your answer, be sure that you are speaking the language of the hiring company. For instance, if they refer to themselves as 'legendary,' try to use that word in your response, supported by the ways that you have delivered legendary service in the past. To match your answer correctly, take your time to comb through the hiring company's website and look for repeating phrases, keywords, and mantras.
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020
Answer Example
"VIP customer service means going out of my way to deliver a customer experience that is unmatched and unforgettable. Maya Angelou said, 'People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.' When I am interacting with a customer, I keep this quote top of mind. I want my customers to feel genuine care, warmth, and dedication in every interaction."
Written by Rachelle Enns on March 21st, 2020