Talking to Customers or Workmates
Nervous to talk to customers or work colleagues? don’t worry we have your back!
Talking to Customers or Workmates
Talking to people at work can feel a bit scary, especially if you're shy, not sure how to start a conversation, or don’t know what to say. We get it. It’s easier to text, but in a job, you’ll need to talk face-to-face with customers and coworkers.
Building strong communication skills and confidence at work can make your job easier and more enjoyable. Here are some quick tips and go-to phrases to help you improve your customer service and workplace communication.
Quick Tips for Talking to People
Notice them – Look up, smile, and make brief eye contact when someone walks in. It shows you're friendly and ready to help.
Make eye contact – You don’t need to stare, just look at the person while you’re talking or listening. It helps build trust.
You don’t need to be their best friend – Customers and coworkers aren’t your mates, so just be polite and professional. Most customer interactions only last around 6 minutes, so keep it friendly, helpful, and simple.
Easy Phrases You Can Use
Saying Hello to a Customer
“Hi there”
“Welcome to our store”
“How are you today?”
Offering Help
“How can I help you today?”
“Is there anything you need?”
“Let me know if you have any questions”
Asking Questions
“Are you looking for something specific?”
“Can’t find what you need? I’ll check out the back for you”
Saying Goodbye to a Customer
“Thanks for coming in”
“Have a great day”
Talking to Workmates
Starting a Conversation
“Hey, how’s your day going?”
“How was your weekend?”
“Did you catch the game or show?”
Offering Help
“Need a hand with that?”
“Want me to help with anything?”
“Can I help with [task]?”
Asking for Help
“Can you show me how to do this?”
“What’s the best way to handle this?”
“Can you explain what this means?”
Saying Bye at the End of a Shift
“See you next shift”
“Bye, I’m done for today. Catch you soon”
“That was a good shift. See you later”
Pro tip: Most of the conversations you’ll have at work follow the same pattern. Once you get a few key phrases locked in, talking to customers and workmates will feel way easier and more natural.
FAQs: Communication at Work and Customer Service
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It helps them feel welcome and taken care of. Good customer service increases the chances they will return, and that reflects well on you and your workplace.
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Start small. Smile, make eye contact, and use simple phrases like “Hi” or “Can I help you?” Confidence at work grows with practice.
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Yes, even just a second of eye contact can show that you’re listening and engaged. It helps build trust and improves communication.
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Be honest and helpful. Say something like, “I’m not sure, let me find out for you.” Then ask a teammate or manager for support.
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It helps you build better relationships, learn faster, and makes your shifts more enjoyable. Being friendly at work also helps you become part of the team.
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Yes, it’s good manners to say goodbye to your team when your shift ends. It shows respect and helps build strong workplace relationships.
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