Customer Service Improvements, A Symptom Of A Bad Economy

Online, July 20, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Norton Shores, Michigan - As news of the economic recovery plays across screens and headlines, many West Michigan companies wonder when they will reap the rewards of the stimulus package, and growth and recovery.

But several companies are not wondering. They are using the sagging economy as leverage to improve their business. Forced to do more with less small companies across West Michigan are making tough decisions and being proactive to not just survive but thrive.

It's an old rule of thumb that when unemployment rises and the economy falters, customer service improves as do the products and services provided. It's logical that when cuts need to be made, companies will save and hire only the best employees. To improve sales, companies will improve their products and services. Historically, you get the best restaurant service during a recession.

While others complain about the economic landscape being difficult Garry Olson, president of Lakeshore Documents, looks toward the challenge and finds new ways to meet the needs of his clients.

"Now is the best time to improve your business," Says Olson. "The economy is difficult for everyone across the board. Now is when we really need to step up our customer service, understand our clients and what they need, and really dig into our industry to see what it needs and how we can meet those needs."

Recently, Lakeshore Document Services purchased a new microfilm scanner. The company invested in the equipment because Olson recognized that the scanner would provide his customers a better finished product faster and at a better price. New equipment, new markets and new services have spurred 9 new hires in the last year and a healthy growth in the company overall.

Small improvements like this one and always putting the customer first help Lakeshore Documents and other similar companies continue to grow, even in bad economic weather.