2 Lessons A Holiday In Bali Taught Me About Customer Service

I recently took a holiday in Bali– a rite of passage for most Australians.

It’s my sixth time to Bali, and while I’ve lost appreciation for Bintang singlets and happy hour (both give me headaches)…

– there’s one thing I will always appreciate– the Balinese customer service. 

That’s why I’m sharing two great tips I learnt from my trip abroad.

Three, if you count my advice for not partaking in a cross-fit class after a night out! See evidence below (I’m not sure why we’re smiling).

1. Repeat EVERYTHING

If you’ve ever experienced anxiety when a waitress takes your order without an iPad, pen or paper– you’re not alone. 

It’s a common fear that my 1/2 strength, 3/4, extra hot, almond-milk latte will be mistaken or even worse– forgotten. 

With a ridiculously comical order like that, how can I blame them? And I definitely don’t want to come across as the nagging, I-want-to-speak-to-the-manager customer, A.K.A “Karen”.

One thing I noticed in Bali was that every time I ordered meals and beverages, not only was it transcribed, but also repeated. As a customer, this made me feel reassured that my complicated coffee order would arrive intact.

So the next time you’re unsure or would like to clarify what the other person has said, ask and repeat it.

People won’t be angry at you for repeating something; they’ll be angry if you get it wrong. 

2. Offer reliability– because that’s when they’ll come back.

If you’ve ever travelled to Seminyak, you’ll know there are plenty of Aussies. 

Sadly, this means you can’t escape Bintang singlets, but on the other hand, you’ll never be too far from a good coffee. 

We ended up at a quaint cafe called Coffee Cartel, after a thorough assessment of Instagram pictures and online menu’s, of course. The food was great, and the coffee was superb.

So, like any basic tourist, I ventured back to the same cafe three days in a row.

Why? Because it was consistent and reliable and that’s what customer service should be. 

Remember, there are plenty of people, products and services out there like you. But if you provide customer service that is consistent and reliable, people will come back every time!

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