Effective Communication with Customers Course
IDCOMM8000

Module 1: Your Role in Customer Service

• Define the role of communication in customer service excellence
• Understand internal vs. external customers
• Recognize the impact of your attitude and actions on organizational image
• Build trust through professional and courteous behavior

Module 2: The Basics of Effective Communication and Its Benefits

• Apply the 3 Cs of communication: Courteous, Clear, Complete
• Understand nonverbal and verbal communication and their impact
• Recognize open vs. closed communication behaviors
• Overcome communication barriers

Module 3: Listening Techniques

• Distinguish between hearing and effective listening
• Practice active, passive, and telephone listening skills
• Apply listening strategies in customer service scenarios
• Use empathy and paraphrasing to improve customer outcomes

Module 4: Analyzing Communication Styles

• Identify your own communication style using a self-assessment
• Understand the four communication styles: Energizer, Systemizer, Associator, Innovator
• Adapt communication strategies based on style and context

Module 5: External and Internal Customer Expectations

• Differentiate between internal and external customer needs
• Use empathy and open communication to meet expectations
• Align your communication style to customer preferences

Module 6: Communicating with Customers Successfully

• Apply SMART techniques (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)
• Build rapport and focus conversations for resolution
• Manage angry customers and ensure satisfaction
• Use Karl Albrecht’s 10 customer service behaviors

Module 7: Personal and Professional Development

• Use communication to support growth and service excellence
• Build self-confidence and reduce stress in customer interactions
• Identify and practice assertive communication
• Recognize and adjust aggressive, passive, and passive-aggressive behaviors

Module 8: Summary

• Review key learning and reflect on professional application
• Create a personal plan for ongoing improvement in communication and service