Good experience reaps big rewards

The South Western Times and Bunbury-Wellington Small Business Centre are again combining to promote good customer service in the region, with the WOW Customer Service Award for Excellence.

The annual award is presented at the South West Small Business Awards and recognises the best of the best in customer service in the region.

Nominations for next year's award have already begun to arrive, with Anne Marie Smith from Coles Service Station Forrest Avenue, Vern Humble from Vern's Home Maintenance, and Hayley Mills from Benesse Cafe all being commended for their customer service.

Bunbury-Wellington Small Business Centre chief executive officer Fiona Fitzgerald said it was a fantastic initiative.

"It only takes a minute of a customer's time to say thank you for good services," she said.

"Customer service is a business' number one competitive advantage."

The West Australian Regional Newspapers South West regional manager Geoff Beard said he was excited to help promote quality customer service in the region and the WOW Customer Service Award for Excellence was the perfect way to bring the wow-factor back into customer service.

"We deal with many local businesses and in today's business world, most have several oppositions and often, the buying decision simply comes down to the experience that the client receives at the time of purchase," Mr Beard said.

Bridgetown-based business KalyaaNa Spa and Wellness Retreat won this year's award and owner Karen Civello said staff were particularly proud of that award.

"We place a very high priority on providing a high level of service and care," she said.

"That particular award comes from nominations by your customers, so that is special."

Mrs Civello said despite the recognition, she was not about to become complacent.

"There is always room for improvement," she said.

"Just because you win an award does not mean you stop improving yourself."