Books about Customer Service: Updated Guide to Essential Reading

Are you looking to enhance your knowledge of customer service and improve the way you interact with your customers? Look no further than these 20 best books about customer service. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or customer service representative, these books offer valuable insights, practical tips, and proven strategies to help you deliver exceptional customer experiences. From timeless classics to modern bestsellers, each book on customer service is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you cultivate strong customer relationships and drive business success. Dive into these customer service books and revolutionize the way you approach customer interactions.

Contents

20 Best Customer Service Books

The Customer Rules: The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service

by Lee Cockerell

The Customer Rules is a comprehensive book on customer service that provides 39 essential rules for delivering exceptional service. Written by Lee Cockerell, the former Executive Vice President of Operations for the Walt Disney World Resort, this book offers practical and proven strategies for creating a customer-centric culture and exceeding customer expectations.

Cockerell draws on his extensive experience in the hospitality industry to share insightful anecdotes and valuable lessons that can be applied to any business. From the importance of hiring the right people to the power of personalized interactions, each rule is designed to help organizations build long-lasting relationships with their customers.

Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or frontline employee, The Customer Rules is a must-read book about customer service that will inspire and equip you to elevate the customer experience. With its engaging storytelling and actionable advice, this customer service book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to differentiate their business through exceptional service.

Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose

by Tony Hsieh

Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh is a captivating book about customer service, company culture, and the power of delivering happiness to both employees and customers. Hsieh, the CEO of Zappos, shares his journey of building a successful company that prioritizes customer satisfaction and employee happiness.

Through engaging storytelling and insightful business strategies, Hsieh reveals the importance of creating a positive work environment and delivering exceptional customer experiences. The book provides valuable lessons on building a brand that is focused on providing outstanding service and creating a culture that fosters passion and purpose.

Readers will be inspired by Hsieh’s innovative approach to business and his commitment to creating a company that values happiness above all else. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business leader, or simply interested in learning about the power of delivering happiness, this customer service book offers practical advice and inspiring anecdotes that will leave you motivated to transform your own company culture.

The Customer Service Revolution: Overthrow Conventional Business, Inspire Employees, and Change the World

by John R. DiJulius III

The Customer Service Revolution by John R. DiJulius III is a game-changing book on customer service that challenges conventional business practices and inspires a new way of thinking. DiJulius, a renowned expert in the field of customer experience, shares powerful insights and strategies for creating a customer-centric culture that not only delights customers but also empowers employees.

This book about customer service goes beyond the typical customer service tips and tricks, offering a revolutionary approach that aims to transform the way businesses operate. DiJulius emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the customer experience and provides actionable steps for organizations to achieve this goal.

Through real-life examples and practical advice, The Customer Service Revolution sparks a powerful call to action for businesses to rethink their approach to customer service and embrace a new mindset that can ultimately change the world. This customer service book is a must-read for anyone who is passionate about delivering exceptional experiences and driving meaningful change in the business world.

Hug Your Haters: How to Embrace Complaints and Keep Your Customers

by Jay Baer

Hug Your Haters: How to Embrace Complaints and Keep Your Customers by Jay Baer is a game-changing book on customer service that challenges businesses to shift their mindset when it comes to handling complaints. Baer argues that rather than avoiding or dismissing customer feedback, companies should embrace it as an opportunity to improve and build stronger customer relationships.

The book about customer service is divided into two parts: “The Hatrix” and “The Hug Your Haters Playbook,” which provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and addressing different types of haters. Baer emphasizes the importance of responding to complaints in a timely and empathetic manner, regardless of the platform on which they are made.

Through real-life examples and actionable strategies, Hug Your Haters equips businesses with the tools and insights needed to transform dissatisfied customers into loyal advocates. This customer service book is a must-read for any company looking to excel in today’s competitive market by putting the customer first.

The Amazement Revolution: Seven Customer Service Strategies to Create an Amazing Customer (and Employee) Experience

by Shep Hyken

The Amazement Revolution: Seven Customer Service Strategies to Create an Amazing Customer (and Employee) Experience by Shep Hyken is a transformative book on customer service that provides a comprehensive guide to creating exceptional experiences for both customers and employees. Hyken, a renowned customer service expert, presents practical strategies and actionable insights for businesses to revolutionize their approach to customer service.

Hyken’s book about customer service emphasizes the importance of building strong customer relationships, exceeding expectations, and delivering consistent, memorable experiences. He outlines seven key strategies that organizations can implement to elevate their customer service practices and stand out in today’s competitive market. Through real-life examples and case studies, Hyken illustrates how companies can create a culture of amazement that fosters loyalty and advocacy among customers and employees alike.

Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or frontline employee, this customer service book offers valuable principles and proven techniques to inspire and empower you to deliver an amazing customer experience that sets your company apart.

The Nordstrom Way: The Inside Story of America’s #1 Customer Service Company

by Robert Spector and Patrick D. McCarthy

The Nordstrom Way: The Inside Story of America’s #1 Customer Service Company, written by Robert Spector and Patrick D. McCarthy, is a captivating book about customer service that takes readers behind the scenes of one of America’s most beloved retail companies. This book offers an in-depth look at the legendary customer service culture at Nordstrom, showcasing the company’s commitment to providing exceptional service and fostering customer loyalty.

Through real-life examples and insightful anecdotes, the authors reveal the strategies and principles that have made Nordstrom a leader in the retail industry. Readers will gain valuable insights into creating a customer-centric culture, empowering employees to make decisions, and building long-lasting relationships with customers. This customer service book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the key components of delivering exceptional customer experiences and building a successful business based on customer loyalty and satisfaction.

The Thank You Economy

by Gary Vaynerchuk

The Thank You Economy, written by Gary Vaynerchuk, is a groundbreaking book on customer service that emphasizes the importance of authentic and meaningful interactions with customers in the digital age. Vaynerchuk argues that in today’s connected world, businesses need to prioritize building genuine relationships with their customers in order to succeed. He believes that the key to thriving in the modern marketplace is to focus on empathy, gratitude, and personalized communication.

This customer service book delves into the power of social media and technology in shaping consumer behavior and expectations. Vaynerchuk provides actionable insights and strategies for businesses to leverage these tools to engage with their audience in a more human and personal way. He emphasizes the significance of listening to customers, providing value, and showing appreciation for their support.

With real-life examples and compelling anecdotes, The Thank You Economy is a must-read for anyone looking to understand and excel in the evolving landscape of customer service. Vaynerchuk’s passionate and practical approach makes this book about customer service a valuable resource for businesses of all sizes.

Exceptional Service, Exceptional Profit: The Secrets of Building a Five-Star Customer Service Organization

by Leonardo Inghilleri and Micah Solomon

Exceptional Service, Exceptional Profit is a comprehensive book on customer service that reveals the secrets of building a five-star customer service organization. Authors Leonardo Inghilleri and Micah Solomon draw on their extensive experience in the hospitality industry to provide practical insights and strategies for creating exceptional customer experiences.

The book delves into the importance of understanding and meeting customer needs, building a customer-focused culture, and empowering employees to deliver exceptional service. Inghilleri and Solomon emphasize the impact of exceptional service on a company’s bottom line, making a compelling case for investing in customer service excellence.

Readers will find valuable tips on creating memorable customer experiences, handling difficult situations, and leveraging customer feedback to drive continuous improvement. The authors also share real-world examples and case studies from leading organizations to illustrate their principles in action.

Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or any other business that values customer satisfaction, this book about customer service is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their customer service game and drive exceptional profit through exceptional service.

The Best Service is No Service: How to Liberate Your Customers from Customer Service, Keep Them Happy, and Control Costs

by Bill Price and David Jaffe

The Best Service is No Service is a groundbreaking book on customer service that challenges the traditional notion of customer service. Authors Bill Price and David Jaffe advocate for eliminating the root causes of customer service issues, rather than simply offering solutions to customer complaints. They argue that by delivering a superior product or service, companies can prevent the need for customer service in the first place.

The book provides a fresh perspective on how businesses can keep their customers happy and control costs by focusing on what truly matters to customers. It offers practical strategies for identifying and eliminating the reasons why customers need to contact customer service, ultimately leading to a more efficient and satisfying customer experience. This customer service book is a must-read for anyone looking to revolutionize their approach to customer satisfaction and retention, and it offers valuable insights for businesses seeking to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

The Customer-Funded Business: Start, Finance, or Grow Your Company with Your Customers’ Cash

by John W. Mullins

The Customer-Funded Business: Start, Finance, or Grow Your Company with Your Customers’ Cash by John W. Mullins is a groundbreaking book on customer-funded businesses. This insightful book challenges the traditional methods of financing a business and introduces a new approach that puts the customer at the center of the funding process. Mullins provides practical guidance on how entrepreneurs can leverage their customer base to start, finance, or grow their businesses without relying on traditional investors or loans.

With real-life examples and case studies, Mullins demonstrates how various companies have successfully utilized customer funding to achieve their business goals. This book about customer service is a must-read for entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone interested in innovative financing strategies. Whether you are a startup looking for alternative funding options or an established business seeking to reduce reliance on external capital, The Customer-Funded Business offers valuable insights and actionable tactics to help you build a successful customer-funded business.

The Customer Service Solution: Managing Emotions, Trust, and Control to Win Your Customer’s Business

by Sriram Dasu and Richard B. Chase

The Customer Service Solution: Managing Emotions, Trust, and Control to Win Your Customer’s Business is a comprehensive and insightful book on customer service. Sriram Dasu and Richard B. Chase provide a deep understanding of the crucial role emotions, trust, and control play in delivering exceptional customer service. The authors offer practical strategies and techniques for managing customer interactions, building trust, and maintaining control in various service encounters.

Through real-life examples and case studies, the book demonstrates how organizations can cultivate an environment that fosters positive emotional connections with customers, leading to increased loyalty and satisfaction. Dasu and Chase also delve into the concept of service recovery, offering effective approaches to address customer complaints and regain trust after service failures.

This customer service book is a valuable resource for anyone in a customer-facing role or responsible for managing customer service operations. It provides actionable insights and tools for creating memorable customer experiences and building long-term relationships with clients.

Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, Customer Loyalty is Priceless

by Jeffrey Gitomer

Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, Customer Loyalty is Priceless by Jeffrey Gitomer is a game-changing book on customer service that challenges the traditional belief that satisfied customers are the key to business success. Gitomer argues that satisfied customers are not enough, and that businesses should aim for creating loyal customers who are not only happy with their experience, but also committed to returning and recommending the business to others.

In this insightful book about customer service, Gitomer provides practical strategies and techniques for building customer loyalty, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, delivering exceptional value, and exceeding customer expectations. With a blend of humor and real-world examples, Gitomer offers a fresh perspective on how businesses can create a customer-focused culture that leads to long-term success.

Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or frontline employee, this customer service book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their customer service game and cultivate a loyal customer base that drives business growth.

The Effortless Experience: Conquering the New Battleground for Customer Loyalty

by Matthew Dixon, Nick Toman, Rick DeLisi

The Effortless Experience: Conquering the New Battleground for Customer Loyalty is a groundbreaking book about customer service that challenges traditional beliefs about customer loyalty. Authors Matthew Dixon, Nick Toman, and Rick DeLisi provide a fresh perspective on how companies can build long-term customer relationships by focusing on reducing customer effort rather than simply striving for customer satisfaction.

The book presents compelling research and real-world examples to demonstrate that customer loyalty is not necessarily driven by delighting customers with exceptional service, but rather by making the customer experience as effortless as possible. The authors argue that customers are more likely to remain loyal when they encounter minimal hassle and frustration when interacting with a company.

This customer service book offers practical strategies for businesses to deliver low-effort experiences and ultimately win customer loyalty. It provides valuable insights for business leaders, customer service professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the true drivers of customer loyalty in today’s competitive marketplace.

Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service

by The Disney Institute

Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of Customer Service by The Disney Institute is a renowned book on customer service that provides valuable insights into delivering exceptional customer experiences. The book takes a deep dive into the world of hospitality and customer satisfaction, drawing on the expertise of one of the world’s most beloved and successful entertainment companies, Disney.

Readers will discover the secrets behind Disney’s legendary customer service and learn how to apply these principles to their own businesses. From creating a magical atmosphere to exceeding customer expectations, the book about customer service offers practical strategies and real-life examples that can be implemented in any industry.

Be Our Guest is a customer service book that goes beyond the basics, offering a fresh perspective on creating memorable experiences for customers. Whether you’re in the hospitality industry or any other field that values customer satisfaction, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their approach to service.

Moments of Truth

by Jan Carlzon

Moments of Truth by Jan Carlzon is a groundbreaking book on customer service that revolutionized the way organizations view and prioritize customer interactions. Carlzon, the former CEO of Scandinavian Airlines, shares his insights on how to create exceptional customer experiences by focusing on what he calls “moments of truth” – those critical points of contact between the customer and the organization.

Through compelling real-life examples and practical strategies, Carlzon emphasizes the importance of empowering frontline employees to make decisions and take ownership of customer interactions. He argues that by doing so, organizations can effectively differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace and build lasting customer loyalty.

This book about customer service is a must-read for anyone in a leadership position or anyone seeking to understand the pivotal role that customer service plays in the success of an organization. Moments of Truth is not just a book – it’s a roadmap for transforming customer service into a competitive advantage.

The Nordstrom Way: The Inside Story of America’s #1 Customer Service Company

by Robert Spector

The Nordstrom Way: The Inside Story of America’s #1 Customer Service Company by Robert Spector is a renowned book on customer service that takes readers behind the scenes of one of the most successful retail companies in the world. This book about customer service provides an in-depth look at how Nordstrom has built its reputation as a leader in customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Through real-life examples and insights from Nordstrom employees, the author delves into the company’s unique approach to providing exceptional service and creating a customer-centric culture. Readers will discover valuable lessons on how to exceed customer expectations, empower employees to deliver outstanding experiences, and build a brand known for its dedication to customer service.

Whether you’re a business professional, entrepreneur, or anyone interested in learning from a customer service book, The Nordstrom Way offers practical strategies and principles that can be applied to any industry. With its engaging storytelling and actionable advice, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their approach to serving customers.

The Customer Comes Second: Put Your People First and Watch ’em Kick Butt

by Hal Rosenbluth

The Customer Comes Second: Put Your People First and Watch ’em Kick Butt by Hal Rosenbluth is a revolutionary book about prioritizing employee satisfaction in order to achieve exceptional customer service. This insightful read challenges the traditional notion that the customer always comes first, arguing that by placing the needs and well-being of employees at the forefront, businesses can create a workplace culture that naturally leads to outstanding customer experiences.

Rosenbluth, drawing from his own experience as the CEO of Rosenbluth International, shares compelling anecdotes and practical strategies for putting employees at the center of the company’s mission. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing a motivated and engaged workforce, which ultimately translates into a positive impact on customer satisfaction and loyalty.

This book about customer service is a must-read for leaders and managers who are seeking to transform their organization’s approach to customer service by focusing on the happiness and fulfillment of their employees. It offers a fresh perspective on how to drive business success by putting your people first.

The Effortless Experience: Conquering the New Battleground for Customer Loyalty

by Matthew Dixon, Nick Toman, and Rick DeLisi

The Effortless Experience: Conquering the New Battleground for Customer Loyalty is a groundbreaking book on customer service that challenges traditional beliefs about what creates customer loyalty. Written by Matthew Dixon, Nick Toman, and Rick DeLisi, this book provides a fresh perspective on how to build strong, lasting relationships with customers. The authors argue that instead of focusing on delighting customers with exceptional service, companies should strive to make the customer experience as effortless as possible. Using extensive research and real-world examples, the authors demonstrate that reducing customer effort is the key to driving loyalty and increasing customer retention. This book about customer service is a must-read for anyone in a customer-facing role or in a leadership position in a customer-centric organization. It offers practical insights and actionable strategies for transforming the way companies approach customer service and building a loyal customer base.

The Customer Service Survival Kit: What to Say to Defuse Even the Worst Customer Situations

by Richard S. Gallagher

The Customer Service Survival Kit: What to Say to Defuse Even the Worst Customer Situations by Richard S. Gallagher is a comprehensive guide for anyone working in the customer service industry. This book on customer service provides practical strategies and effective communication techniques to handle even the most challenging customer interactions. Gallagher draws on his extensive experience in the field to offer valuable insights and real-life examples that will help customer service professionals navigate difficult situations with confidence and empathy.

Whether you are a seasoned customer service representative or new to the field, this customer service book is filled with practical advice and actionable tips that will help you de-escalate tense encounters and turn unhappy customers into loyal advocates. With its clear and concise writing style, The Customer Service Survival Kit is an essential resource for anyone looking to improve their customer service skills and enhance the overall customer experience.

The Customer Culture Imperative: A Leader’s Guide to Driving Superior Performance

by Linden R. Brown and Chris L. Brown

The Customer Culture Imperative: A Leader’s Guide to Driving Superior Performance is a transformative book about customer service that provides practical strategies for building a customer-centric culture within an organization. Authors Linden R. Brown and Chris L. Brown offer insightful perspectives on the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction and loyalty, and how it directly impacts business performance. The book emphasizes the need for leaders to champion a customer-focused mindset and provides actionable steps for cultivating a culture that places the customer at the center of decision-making and operations. With real-world examples and case studies, the authors illustrate how organizations can differentiate themselves through exceptional customer experiences, ultimately driving growth and success. Whether you are a business leader, manager, or entrepreneur, this customer service book is a valuable resource for understanding the power of cultivating a strong customer culture and its impact on long-term success.

Final Thoughts on Best Customer Service Books

Customer Service is a critical aspect of any business, and these 20 best books about customer service offer valuable insights and strategies for delivering exceptional customer experiences. From understanding customer needs to implementing effective communication techniques, these books cover a wide range of topics that can help businesses elevate their customer service game. Whether you’re a business owner, manager, or a customer service professional, these books provide practical advice and actionable tips that can make a significant impact on customer satisfaction and loyalty. By incorporating the wisdom from these books into your customer service approach, you can create a culture of service excellence that sets your business apart from the competition.

Which book about Customer Service is best?

The best book on Customer Service can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Customer Rules: The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service by Lee Cockerell,
  2. Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh,
  3. The Customer Service Revolution: Overthrow Conventional Business, Inspire Employees, and Change the World by John R. DiJulius III.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Customer Service?

For those looking to learn about Customer Service, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Customer Rules: The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service by Lee Cockerell,
  2. Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh,
  3. The Customer Service Revolution: Overthrow Conventional Business, Inspire Employees, and Change the World by John R. DiJulius III,
  4. Hug Your Haters: How to Embrace Complaints and Keep Your Customers by Jay Baer,
  5. The Amazement Revolution: Seven Customer Service Strategies to Create an Amazing Customer (and Employee) Experience by Shep Hyken,
  6. The Nordstrom Way: The Inside Story of America’s #1 Customer Service Company by Robert Spector and Patrick D. McCarthy,
  7. The Thank You Economy by Gary Vaynerchuk,
  8. Exceptional Service, Exceptional Profit: The Secrets of Building a Five-Star Customer Service Organization by Leonardo Inghilleri and Micah Solomon,
  9. The Best Service is No Service: How to Liberate Your Customers from Customer Service, Keep Them Happy, and Control Costs by Bill Price and David Jaffe,
  10. The Customer-Funded Business: Start, Finance, or Grow Your Company with Your Customers’ Cash by John W. Mullins

These books offer a range of perspectives on Customer Service, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Customer Service?

The best books about Customer Service are:

  • The Customer Rules: The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service by Lee Cockerell,
  • Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh,
  • The Customer Service Solution: Managing Emotions, Trust, and Control to Win Your Customer’s Business by Sriram Dasu and Richard B. Chase,
  • Customer Satisfaction is Worthless, Customer Loyalty is Priceless by Jeffrey Gitomer,
  • Exceptional Service, Exceptional Profit: The Secrets of Building a Five-Star Customer Service Organization by Leonardo Inghilleri and Micah Solomon,
  • The Nordstrom Way: The Inside Story of America’s #1 Customer Service Company by Robert Spector and Patrick D. McCarthy.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Customer Service are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Customer Service books of all time?

Choosing the best Customer Service books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Customer Rules: The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service by Lee Cockerell,
  • Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh,
  • The Amazement Revolution: Seven Customer Service Strategies to Create an Amazing Customer (and Employee) Experience by Shep Hyken,
  • Exceptional Service, Exceptional Profit: The Secrets of Building a Five-Star Customer Service Organization by Leonardo Inghilleri and Micah Solomon,
  • and The Customer Service Solution: Managing Emotions, Trust, and Control to Win Your Customer’s Business by Sriram Dasu and Richard B. Chase.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Customer Service and continues to be influential today.