LIKE.TG is excited to announce its official launch on Product Hunt. This is a great achievement for our team. It is a testament to our dedication and determination to develop the best customer support software, which we believe will revolutionize the way companies interact with their customers.In this article, we’ll share some insight about our preparation for the Product Hunt launch and what we learned. What is Product Hunt?Product Hunt (PH) is a community-driven platform for showcasing new software, apps, hardware, and anything tech related.Product Hunt helps with the following:Increase product visibilityAttract feedback from the communityGather insight on product featuresEstablish a user baseCreate excitement about a productA successful launch on Product Hunt can result in business growth, brand recognition, and partnerships through affiliate marketing. It’s a chance to showcase your work to a worldwide audience.Who we areSyncfusion is a software company that offers UI widgets for developers across various development platforms. We have over 30,000 customers, including most Fortune 500 companies.LIKE.TG is our cloud-based customer service software packed with features that help businesses effectively organize and manage all support requests and inquiries in a centralized platform.It can be used to automate repetitive tasks, manage support agents’ workflows, streamline collaboration, and improve other customer support operations.With LIKE.TG, support agents can efficiently address customer needs while ensuring smooth operations within their current tech infrastructure.LIKE.TG has the following features that enhance the customer service experience for both agents and customers:Ticketing system: Consolidates support requests to a single platform, routes them to the right agents, and enhances team collaboration.Knowledge base software: A centralized information hub that provides customers with the ability to help themselves. It can also be used internally to assist agents.Workflow automation: No-code automation lets you create a customized workflow for your support team and streamline repetitive manual tasks in the ticket life cycle with ease. It also supports the implementation of SLAs to set response and resolution time frames automatically.Task management: Review support tickets and related activities in a single platform.AI-enhanced assistance: Speeds up the resolution of support queries by summarizing tickets and helping compose responses.Reports and analytics: Integrated reports and dashboards deliver informative, up-to-date data that assists support teams in making well-informed choices for enhancing customer service.Why we built LIKE.TGThe journey to build LIKE.TG started when we at Syncfusion discovered a gap between advanced help desk software solutions that were expensive and simpler alternatives that were much more affordable.There was a need for help desk software that could cater to small- and medium-sized businesses looking for a comprehensive yet cost-effective solution for their growing support teams.In response, we developed LIKE.TG, an affordable and highly customizable help desk solution to help businesses of all sizes—from startups to medium-sized businesses, to large enterprises—provide outstanding customer service.LIKE.TG was first used by our internal IT support team. After we were highly satisfied with its performance and the usability of its features, we released LIKE.TG to the public.What did we accomplish?When we launched LIKE.TG on Product Hunt, we reached a significant achievement: LIKE.TG earned the fifth position for the Product of the Day on December 11, 2023.This success not only affirmed the dedication and effort of our team, but also highlighted the value and potential of LIKE.TG in the customer service SaaS market.In addition to being in the top five products of the day, our Product Hunt launch yielded 587 upvotes, 208 comments, and 721 followers.What we did to prepare for the Product Hunt launchHere are some ways we prepared for a successful Product Hunt launch:Created a concise product page and accounts for LIKE.TG team leadsThe purpose of LIKE.TG is succinctly communicated on our PH page.Several leaders of the LIKE.TG team created Product Hunt accounts so that they could directly connect with potential users and engage with Product Hunt’s vibrant community of technology enthusiasts.They can also answer customers’ comments easily.Offered a discountWe paired the Product Hunt launch with a promo code that gives users a 50% discount on all plans for the first year.This code is still up for grabs as a thank you for supporting us on Product Hunt: PH50.We also unveiled an SMB-friendly pricing plan that starts as low as $10 for 10 agents to help customers increase their productivity for less.Built a voter baseTo have a successful Product Hunt launch, we actively involved our current user community, plus colleagues and friends to support us.By nurturing a network of supporters, our goal was to obtain early votes that pushed our product to the front, increasing its visibility and credibility.Pre-launch outreach through social media and emailBy utilizing the influence of social media, we coordinated a campaign to create buzz for our PH debut.Customized posts, teasers, and countdowns on different platforms such as X, Facebook, and LinkedIn aimed to:Engage our desired audienceCapture the attention of active Product HuntersAnnounce our upcoming launchLead our customers to Product Hunt on launch dayLeveraging social media expanded the reach of our debut, going beyond the confines of the Product Hunt platform.Additionally, we sent emails to potential customers prior to the launch to notify them about the day of the PH Launch.Launch announcement videosWe appreciate the power of visual storytelling, and therefore invested in creating a compelling video that vividly demonstrated LIKE.TG’s features and benefits.This video served as a dynamic trailer for LIKE.TG, not only on PH but also across our social media channels and website.What you should expect after a successful launch on Product HuntGreater brand awareness and visibility: Launching on Product Hunt helps your brand gain exposure in the SaaS community, culminating in greater popularity with your target audience.New customers and partners: Active participation on PH offers an opportunity to turn Product Hunters from different communities within the platform into new customers. It also encourages partnerships and attracts investments.Valuable feedback from Product Hunters: The Product Hunt community offers valuable feedback, insights, suggestions, and analyses that can help you improve your product.Increased brand credibility: Earning a top position of in the Product of the Day or Product of the Week helps your brand gain recognition and establishes your business as a significant player in the SaaS industry.Triumph on the horizon: A successful Product Hunt launchLIKE.TG securing the fifth position on the Product of the Day on Product Hunt was a significant accomplishment.This recognition strengthened our belief that we are on the right path in building a product that effectively meets the help desk software needs of businesses and organizations worldwide.To learn more about LIKE.TG and its features, you can book a live demo or schedule a 15-day free trial. You can contact the LIKE.TG support team for more information.We hope this article will help you during your own Product Hunt launch, and we would love to hear about your experiences. Kindly share your reflections in the comments section below.Related articlesLIKE.TG Recognized as a High Performer in G2 Summer 2023 Grid® Report!LIKE.TG: 2023 Rising Star Award Winner!LIKE.TG Wins Crozdesk’s Quality Choice Award and Happiest Users Award!

Every organization’s success depends on the language used in customer service interactions, as each customer interaction represents the brand.Consistency in customer service can be achieved using exceptional customer service phrases.A survey by Khoros shows that 43% of consumers are more inclined to purchase a brand following a positive customer service experience.Even in the most straightforward support conversations, precise words and appropriate delivery methods can distinguish between a decent and outstanding customer experience.With the right customer service phrases, you can improve your interactions with customers, whether you’re a manager onboarding new staff, an experienced customer support representative, or a small business owner balancing several tasks.This blog covers customer service phrases to avoid using and ones that help you deliver a superior customer service experience. What are customer service phrases?Customer service phrases refer to verbal or written expressions used regularly by support agents to interact with customers.These phrases create rapport and ensure customer satisfaction by conveying a commitment to providing quality service and resolving any issues.These interactions might be over the phone, online, or in person.Excellent customer service phrasesHere are some excellent customer service phrases to use in your everyday interactions with customers:GreetingsIn customer service, it is expected to use a cordial and polite greeting to express warm hospitality and eagerness to provide support.This friendly customer service phrase can make customers feel welcome and inclined to discuss their issues.Inquiring about someone’s well-being provides a human touch and helps customers feel appreciated.A friendly greeting, even when customers are experiencing issues, establishes a positive tone for the conversation and fosters open communication.Some of the common customer service phrases you can use to greet clients include:1. “How are you doing today?”2. “Welcome! How may I assist you today?”3. “Good [morning/afternoon/evening]! What brings you in today?”4. “Nice to meet you. How can I help you?”5. “Thank you for calling [company]. This is [name]. How can I help you?”Pro tips for greeting phrasesStay positive: Regardless of the circumstances, maintain a positive attitude in your greeting. This can influence the customer’s mood and expression.Practice active listening: Once you’ve greeted the customer, pay attention to their response. Active listening helps you understand their needs better.Acknowledging the issueAcknowledge your customer’s frustration and be willing to work together to find a solution. This lets customers know that your team understands their situation.It also reassures them that their concerns are taken seriously and that your agents are committed to helping resolve any issues.The following are some example customer service phrases to acknowledge the issue:6. “I understand this must be [adjective]. Let’s work together to resolve it.”7. “Thanks for bringing this to our attention.”8. “I’m sorry you’re experiencing this issue. Let me help you with that.”Pro tips to acknowledge customer issuesPrompt response: Acknowledge the issue as soon as possible. Quick acknowledgments show attentiveness and care.Be specific: Acknowledge the particular problem or concern raised by the customer. This demonstrates that you’re listening and understand their issue.Don’t dismiss: Avoid dismissing any customer issue.Offering a solutionThe correct words can be your greatest ally while trying to solve a problem. They can ease stress, offer direction, and open the door to a resolution.Letting your customers know that you are eager to help them right away can set a positive tone for the call and make them feel confident that you will work to provide a satisfactory resolution.You can achieve this by telling customers that they have come to the right place, you are trustworthy, and you are ready to assist them in any way possible.Once you have resolved their issue, end the conversation with memorable customer service phrases like:9. “I’m here to assist you. What specifically can I do to help?”10. “I’m happy to help if you need additional support.”11. “Please reach out again.”12. “Here’s what I can do to help you resolve this issue.”13. “Excellent question. I’ll find out for you.”14. “Here is what we can do.”15. “I’ll keep you updated every step of the way.”16. “Your issues have been resolved. Can we assist you with anything else?”When used consistently, these customer service phrases can leave a lasting impression and encourage customers to return.Pro tips to use when offering a solutionCustomize solutions: Tailor solutions to the specific needs and circumstances of the customer. Avoid generic responses.Present options: Offer multiple solutions if possible. Giving choices empowers the customer and shows flexibility.Actively listen: Pay attention to customers’ needs and offer support accordingly, whether communicating through live chat, email, or phone.Asking a customer to wait or to be put on holdWhen needing to review an account or inquire about another resource, employees should use courteous customer services phrases to get permission before putting a customer on hold. Asking for their permission shows that you appreciate them.You can use the following customer service phrases:17. “Is it OK if I put you on hold briefly to confirm [information]?”18. “Great question! Please hold for a minute. I will find the answer for you.”19. “Thank you for holding. I now have the solution.”Pro tips for putting customers on holdSeek permission: Always ask for a customer’s permission before putting them on hold.Specify duration: You can provide the estimated time the customer must wait. For example, “Kindly give me one minute to confirm.”Power words for customer servicePower words such as are powerful and positive responses that show complete agreement and optimism to the customer.They inspire confidence in the customer and convey a sense of trustworthiness.These versatile customer service phrases affirm or show agreement with the customer, assuring you will take care of the issue and deliver a satisfactory resolution.Some of these power words/phrases include:20. “Absolutely”21. “Definitely”22. “Will”23. “I appreciate that.”24. “Surely”25. “Must”Pro tips for power words to usePersonalization words: Include words that personalize the interactions.Reassurance words: Incorporate words that reassure customers and build trust.Respectful language: Use respectful words and customer service phrases that show consideration and professionalism.Apologizing and showing empathyIt’s crucial to use language demonstrating that you are sorry for any inconvenience, costs, or mistakes you have made.Expressing concern is a solid approach that shows empathy. Sincere empathy is the key to delivering excellent customer service.Examples of customer service phrases you can use to apologize or empathize with customers include:26. “I’m sorry this happened. I appreciate your patience as we sort this out.”27. “Our apologies for letting you go through this.”28. “Is there a specific situation you’re dealing with?”Pro tips to show empathySincerity matters: A genuine apology is crucial. Express regret and take responsibility without making excuses or shifting blame.Use empathetic language: Acknowledge the situation’s impact on the person.Gathering and confirming informationChoosing the right word to fill a gap in your message can significantly affect the tone of your response, especially when dealing with an unhappy customer.This avoids misunderstandings and ensures both parties are on the same page before further discussion or actions to address the problem.Some of the best customer service phrases to keep things upbeat while gathering information include:29. “Let me find a solution for you. Please provide me with the following details.”30. “I understand how [adjective] that must be.”31. “Just to confirm, you’re saying [repeat the issue]. Is that correct?”32. “Let me make sure I understand the situation correctly. Please correct me if I’m wrong.”33. “I completely understand your situation.”34. “I would like to understand more about [issue].”35. “Kindly confirm if I have gotten this right.”36. “Would you please tell me more about that?Even when clients make strange requests, remain positive and demonstrate the value of their ideas by using expressions that convey you understand their viewpoint and may consider their suggestions later.Pro tips for collecting informationAvoid assumptions: Refrain from assuming details. Always confirm information, especially when It’s critical to the situation.Summarize: Periodically provide a summary of the discussion to ensure alignment. This keeps everyone on the same page throughout the conversation.Active listening: Focus on what the other person is saying. Listen attentively without interrupting to get all the information needed.Be curious: Show genuine interest in the information being shared. Curiosity prompts more comprehensive and detailed responses.Expressing gratitudeSupport agents use various customer service phrases to acknowledge and express gratitude for feedback, emphasizing their role in facilitating improvements.This reassures the customer that their input is vital and is being considered for positive changes.You can also show gratitude when someone is waiting for a resolution by acknowledging their patience while reassuring them that their concern is being addressed.Some of the customer service phrases to use to express gratitude include:37. “Thank you for bringing this to our attention. Your feedback helps us improve.”38. “I appreciate your patience while we work on this matter.”39. “We appreciate you bringing this to our attention.”40. “Thank you for being our esteemed client.”Pro tips for expressing gratitudeUse their name: Personalize your gratitude by addressing the person by name.Be timely: Express gratitude promptly. Don’t wait too long; timely acknowledgment makes it more meaningful.Follow up: Send a thank you message a few days later. It reinforces your appreciation and shows you haven’t forgotten their kindness.Closing the interactionAn agent can end an interaction with a customer in several ways. They can thank customers for their time, inquire if the customer requires further assistance, provide an open invitation for the customer to reach out again, or give the customer the exact time or date to expect a follow-up.This way, customers will feel heard and valued, and they will be more likely to return. Remember, people’s experiences with your brand become more valuable when they know you’re always happy to help.Support agents can choose any of the following customer service phrases to end a call:41. “Is there anything else I can assist you with today?”42. “Thank you for choosing us. Have a great day!”43. “You can expect an update from us by [date/time].”44. “If you’re ready, I will connect you to the [manager or specialist].”45. “Please let us know if there is anything else we can help with.”Pro tips to close the interactionYou will convey reliability and confidence by keeping your word and interacting with your client promptly.Customer service phrases to avoidA conversation can swiftly change after one or two hurtful words. Here are some customer service phrases to avoid.1. “That’s impossible.”There are situations in which a customer’s request cannot be fulfilled; it’s crucial to handle these situations with caution.Telling clients that something is impossible sends the wrong message: You are not eager to assist them.It’s a useless response. You must assist a customer in resolving any misunderstandings they have. Instead, say, “I sincerely apologize for this and wish we could find a solution for you.”2. “I can’t help you with that.”Understandably, there may be issues that a specific agent or your company cannot resolve. However, negatively stating it outright can bring the conversation to a standstill.It is inappropriate to dismiss their worries and tell them you cannot help. If there is no way to remedy the issue, your support team can still offer advice.Although sending a customer to a rival company is dangerous, it establishes your credibility as a knowledgeable and helpful resource.3. “Your call is important to us.”This phrase, often regarded as an automated message, is generated as an initial greeting when the customer waits.Although following up with customers is important, the sentiment loses meaning if callers feel their concerns aren’t adequately addressed.4. “I don’t know.”Saying “I don’t know” to a customer conveys a lack of interest in finding a solution and can result in a negative experience.As a brand representative, being the most qualified person is essential to assist the customer and maintain your credibility.Customers may not have time to wait for a solution, so it’s best to avoid saying, “I don’t know.” It’s better to find a solution quickly.Use other customer service phrases like, “Excellent question! I’ll find the solution for you as soon as possible” to show you will help.5. “Our apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.”This customer service phrase is commonly used to express regret when a situation might cause inconvenience to someone.The expression attempts to downplay the issue and offer an apology all at once.But be precise and direct rather than relying on a cliched, false phrase.Express your genuine regret and the steps you’re taking to address the situation.6. “Give me one second to look into that …”This phrase shows disregard for customer consent. Ask for a customer’s permission before making them wait for a response or resolution.Support teams should always have a plan for tackling an issue, and they should know how much time they need.7. “Unfortunately, I can’t do that for you.”Refusing to help consumers directly is not a wise strategy. Your clients will immediately cease doing business with you.According to a survey from Zippia,78% of customers bail out of a purchase due to a bad customer service experience.Customers depart when their discontent increases. Instead, focus on your limitations and consider solutions to lessen the impact.8. “I’m sorry you feel that way.”Customers can always tell when someone apologizes but isn’t sincere. A poor apology can potentially inflict more harm than no apology since an apology aims to mend a relationship.It’s crucial to pair it with genuine empathy and a willingness to address the underlying issue or concern. Otherwise, it might be perceived as dismissive or insincere.You can demonstrate your understanding of the customer’s problem by offering a solution.9. “Can I help you with anything else today?”Employees should use specific phrases while providing customer service but must use them at the right time.For instance, using the customer service phrase “Is there anything else I can help you with?” might seem like a clever idea, but if it’s used too early in the conversation, customers might feel like their issues are being hurried.To provide successful customer service, gauge the customer’s mood and respond appropriately to their needs.10. “I’m sorry. I didn’t recognize that request.”Understanding customers’ problems and emotions is essential to resolving their concerns. Don’t feel bad about not understanding. Active listening is the key to success.Rather than reacting hastily, make it your mission to fully comprehend what the other person is saying.Instead, invest your time understanding and properly addressing the customer’s concerns.11. “Thank you for the feedback.”Avoiding the customer service phrase “Thank you for the feedback” while still acknowledging and appreciating customer input requires a bit of creativity and response variation.Consider using insight instead of feedback to give your support encounters a more genuine, upbeat tone.12. “That’s not my job.”This customer service phrase gives your consumers the impression that they are being shuffled around from person to person and that you are unwilling to assist them with their inquiry.They won’t be content with either choice.Help the consumer even if the question is not within your area of expertise. Either seek the solution they need or put them in touch with a knowledgeable person.Alternatively, consider asking, “How can I help?” This exudes eagerness and a readiness to assist while giving the customer a sense of importance.13. “Don’t tell anyone I told you this.”This is an improper approach to win a customer’s trust. It’s a harmful practice. Discussing trade secrets will have damaging effects.You will appear unprofessional, dishonor your company, and harm your firm’s reputation.14. “You misheard me.”This statement implies that the consumer is at fault, even if they did misunderstand what you said.It’s important to refrain from blaming the customer directly for any miscommunication or issue.Remember that the customer isn’t as knowledgeable about the product or service as you are, which can make communication about the situation difficult for them.Say, “I apologize! Can I clarify it for you?” to rectify this.Use excellent customer service phrases to improve your interactionsWorking with customers can be demanding, particularly if you lack the resources and authorization necessary to assist them in finding a solution as soon as possible. Fortunately, you have the power to decide how to react.As you decide which customer service phrases to begin and end with, remember that delivering exceptional customer service requires precise words and appropriate delivery methods.Using the listed phrases, you can improve customer interactions and deliver superior customer service.Please schedule alive demoto see howLIKE.TGcreates a key component for outstanding customer service. Also, free to start afree trialto explore its many features.If you have any questions about the product or its capabilities, please contact theLIKE.TG support team.We’d love to hear what you resonated with after reading this blog. Feel free to share your insights, questions, ideas or experiences on customer service phrases, in the comment section below — Your thoughts count!Related articles50+ Customer Service Email Templates and Best Practices9 Great Alternatives to “Happy to Help”Customer Thank You Notes: Examples and Tips

Ever wondered why some companies seem to move forward easily while others struggle to keep up? Chances are that the leading companies have figured out how to implement cross-functional teamwork.Getting teams from different departments and areas of expertise working together is a real key to success.Imagine a business where the marketing guru, the tech wizard, and the customer service champion all sit at the same table, putting their minds together in pursuit of a common goal.New ideas emerge. Challenges get solved faster. The result is a level of creativity and innovation that just isn’t possible when people operate separately.In this blog, we will:Unravel the core principles of cross-functional team collaborationExplore the benefits and challenges associated with managing such teamsProvide examples and top strategies to set up and run cross functional teams within your organization What is a cross-functional team?A cross-functional team is composed of employees from different departments within a company. They work together on a specific project to achieve shared goals.These team members usually have the specific skill sets and expertise necessary to complete the project successfully.Organizations can either assemble a temporary cross-functional team to work on a particular project or form a permanent cross-functional team for all its projects of this nature.For instance, as companies undergo digital transformation, they might need to create a cross-functional team with IT specialists, data analysts, digital marketing experts, and representatives from key business units.The team’s goal would be to integrate digital technology smoothly into all areas of the business.The principles of cross-functional teamwork: The three CsA growing number of companies are recognizing the importance of grouping people with a variety of knowledge to reach a shared objective, leading them to foster greater cooperation across departments.For this cross-functional teamwork to thrive, it must be built upon three foundational elements known as the 3 Cs.CommunicationCommunication in cross-functional teams refers to the active exchange of information, ideas, and feedback among team members to ensure everyone is on the same page.Importance of communicationClear communication helps bridge the knowledge gaps that exist in cross functional teams, promotes transparency, minimizes misunderstandings, and creates a unified work environment.It also ensures that every team member understands the project’s objectives, their role, and those of their colleagues.How to improve communicationTo foster open communication among team members:Schedule regular team meetings to conduct check-insUse collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams or SlackEncourage team members to ask questions or offer feedbackCollaborationCollaboration is the act of team members working together towards a shared goal, leveraging their individual strengths and expertise.Importance of collaborationA recent study by Zippia revealed that 75% of employees rate workspace collaboration as being “very important.”Collaboration helps bring together diverse talents and perspectives, leading to innovative solutions and better decision-making. It also promotes a sense of unity that increases team spirit.How to improve collaborationTo help your team members collaborate better:Encourage an open and inclusive environmentConduct vigorous brainstorming sessions that yield comprehensive solutionsValue each team member’s contributionFoster a sense of shared responsibilityCoordinationCoordination involves organizing and harmonizing the efforts of cross-functional team members to ensure the project is running smoothly.Importance of coordinationWith diverse skills and responsibilities, coordination ensures that everyone is well-aligned with the project’s timelines and overall strategy.It helps prevent duplicated efforts, allows optimal utilization of resources, and aids in a smooth workflow.How to improve coordinationTo build a well-coordinated, cross-functional team:Designate a project managerSet up effective project management processesCreate a project timeline with clear, achievable targetsEstablish clear roles and responsibilitiesUtilize project management toolsTips for building successful cross-functional team collaborationHere are some tips you can consider for building and managing effective cross-functional team collaboration.Establish clear project goals and objectivesBefore bringing subject matter experts together in a cross-functional team, set clear project goals with defined deadlines and milestones.Communicate the purpose of bringing the team together and the expected outcome for all members. This will ensure the team is aligned around a common vision.Select the right team membersChoose individuals who have the necessary expertise and experience to contribute to the team’s objectives.Come up with a diverse team in terms of perspective and departmental background to enhance creativity and innovation.Choose a leaderAppoint a skilled leader who can assign roles to members, facilitate discussions, manage conflicts, and keep the team focused on its goals.The leader should be able to navigate the different departmental cultures and help the team find common ground.Define roles and responsibilitiesClearly outline each team member’s role and responsibilities to avoid clashing or repetition of tasks and ensure accountability.Additionally, ensure that roles are aligned with team members’ strengths and expertise.Foster open collaboration and communicationEncourage open communication and sharing of information across the cross-functional team.Use collaboration tools and platforms to facilitate communication, especially if the team is distributed geographically.Establish strong relationshipsCreate opportunities for team members to get to know each other on a personal level, such as through team-building activities or informal gatherings.Create an atmosphere of trust where members feel comfortable sharing ideas and providing honest feedback.Set up effective conflict resolution proceduresAnticipate and address conflicts early on by establishing clear processes for resolving disagreements.Encourage a culture of constructive feedback and problem-solving rather than blame.Schedule regular meetings and updatesHold regular meetings for the cross-functional team members to track progress, address challenges, and ensure that everyone is still on board and on the same page.Share updates and successes with stakeholders to maintain transparency and support.Measure the team’s performance over timeSelect the appropriate key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the team’s progress and success.Make adjustments to promote optimal performance and productivity.Hold team members accountable for their contributions but also celebrate achievements as a team.Cross functional teams examplesDifferent companies form different kinds of cross functional teams based on their business setup and the products they deliver.For example, companies that provide customer service software might formulate a cross-functional team to develop a new product.This team may comprise members from the development, product management, customer support, sales, and marketing departments.To ensure a project’s success, each department might be tasked with a given role, for instance:Product lead: Spearheads project execution and makes final decisions.Communications team: Maintains clear, consistent, and open dialogue with all stakeholders outside the team.Product development team: Ensures the technical feasibility and execution of the new product.Product management team: Provides insight into market needs and customer feedback.Customer support team:Contributes opinions on support materials that should be developed and where customers may need extra help.The sales team:Offers perspective on how the new feature can meet customer needs.The marketing team:Devises strategies to communicate the benefits of the product to the current and potential customer base.As the customer service software is utilized, the cross-functional team actively monitors and analyzes user feedback and performance metrics.The marketing team may run campaigns to educate customers about the new feature, while the sales team provides feedback from customers to the product team for further refinement.The customer support team assists customers in leveraging the new functionality and collects firsthand feedback, which is then funneled back to the development team to troubleshoot any issues and make additional enhancements.Through this cycle of feedback and improvement, the cross-functional team ensures that the customer service software consistently meets and exceeds customer expectations.Benefits of cross functional team leadershipAs organizations strive to navigate complex challenges and innovate at a rapid pace, fostering collaboration across various departments becomes a critical factor in achieving strategic goals.Cross functional teams are one key to a company’s success for the following reasons:Help align priorities and goalsBy working in cross-functional teams, members gain a better understanding of overall objectives, the contributions made by each department, and what is required to make those contributions.The team members can better align their efforts.Help build stronger relationshipsTeams that regularly collaborate build an understanding that can help ease the tension that sometimes exists between different groups and smooth over friction points in workflow processes.Yield innovative solutions and enhance problem-solving capabilitiesExposing teams to new perspectives and ways of thinking fuels creativity. Brainstorming and problem-solving together leads to innovative ideas that push businesses forward.Complex business challenges often require input from multiple departments, and cross-functional teams have the collective knowledge and experience to tackle issues that go beyond a single business function.Improve efficiency and productivityWhenever people with complementary abilities work together towards a common goal, the result is greater than the sum of its parts.Cross-functional collaboration can significantly boost team and work output and quality.Enhance communicationWhenever teams work together across disciplines, communication links are strengthened across the organization.This reduces redundancies and makes the flow of information more efficient.Enhance the ability to adapt to changing demandsCross-functional teams have a mix of skills and expertise that enable them to adjust faster to new priorities and challenges, without losing focus.Challenges of managing cross functional teams and how to overcome themWhen a team consists of individuals from various departments and areas of specialization, it’s inevitable that challenges will arise.Communication breakdowns and barriersThe lack of a common language and comprehension of the roles and contributions of different team members can make it hard for them to convey their thoughts clearly.This may result in confusion, misunderstandings, and even potential conflicts.Communication barriers can hinder collaboration, delay project timelines, and ultimately impact the overall success of the team’s objectives.How can you overcome this challenge?Establish clear communication protocolsEncourage open dialogueInvest in building strong interpersonal relationshipsFoster an environment of mutual respectEnsure that each team member’s voice is heard and valuedConflicting prioritiesIndividuals in collaborative teams often have their primary allegiances to their respective functional areas.This can lead to a tug-of-war over resources, timelines, key performance indicators, and project directions.For instance, the finance team could prioritize cost-cutting, which might conflict with the engineering team’s need for high-quality materials.This misalignment not only hinders decision-making and slows progress but can also foster an environment of misunderstanding and tension.How can you overcome this challenge?Balancing these competing priorities requires strong leadership, clear communication, and a well-articulated shared goal that aligns the team’s efforts towards the organization’s objectives.Lack of trust among team membersMistrust within cross-functional teams can undermine the collaborative synergy needed for these diverse groups to operate effectively.When team members harbor doubts about the reliability or competence of their colleagues from different departments, it results in:Hiccups in communicationA reluctance to share information or resourcesLimited innovationUnwillingness to take on additional work and effortIneffective decision-making processA disjointed approach to problem-solvingHow can you overcome this challenge?Choose team members with diverse perspectives and skills, but similar work ethics. Give them a chance to get to know each other in a setting less formal than a business meeting.For example, have the team go out for lunch together one day.Difficulties in defining responsibility and accountabilityThe blend of skills in collaborative teams can be both a strength and a weakness when it comes to determining clear lines of accountability.Each team member may have different supervisors set by their home department, which can lead to confusion over who is responsible for specific tasks or decisions.Without clearly defined roles and responsibilities, there can be an overlap of duties or, conversely, critical tasks may slip through the cracks as each member assumes someone else is accountable.Moreover, the shared leadership structure in cross-functional teams can dilute personal accountability, as team members may feel less individually responsible for outcomes in a group setting.How can you overcome this challenge?Establish a framework for accountability, including well-documented project plans with:Well-defined responsibilitiesRegular progress reviewsOpen communication channelsThis will ensure that all members are aligned and accountable for producing their portions of work in a timely manner.Use atask management toolto break down and schedule tasks, define milestones and deliverables, and ensure everyone stays on schedule throughout theproject life cycle.Miscommunication among team membersWhile team members bring specialized expertise, the differences in background knowledge can lead to misunderstandings, underutilization of skills, and disjointed efforts.The terminologies and procedures that are unique to each discipline further derail collaboration efforts and make communication and alignment difficult.Without a shared understanding, teams may struggle to integrate their efforts effectively, leading to redundant and erroneous work or missed opportunities for working together.The absence of a common knowledge-sharing platform can also hinder innovation, as team members may not be able to find information quickly and fully grasp the potential application of others’ insights.How can you overcome this challenge?Invest in collaborative tools like robustknowledge base softwareto give employees a place to find background information.Schedule regular cross-training sessions to bridge the information divide and familiarize team members with each other’s skill sets.Leverage the potential of cross-functional teams to unlock next-level successThere is a limit to what you can achieve alone, but when you work with others, there is no boundary to your success. Cross-functional teams are the engine that drives successful modern businesses.They break down barriers, bring together diverse talents and skills, speed up progress, and lead to better-rounded solutions.To successfully execute cross-functional teams, tools play a pivotal role, and this is where LIKE.TG shines.LIKE.TG enhances team collaboration and efficiency, providing knowledge base software to give your teams grounding and internal support software to organize tasks.Contact usto schedule alive demoto experience firsthand how LIKE.TG’s capabilities can help you get started with your cross-functional team. Or start afree trialto get instant access today.

Certainly, Freshdesk can prove beneficial for specific businesses, but it may not be suitable for everyone. The extensive list of features, while initially appealing, presents a major challenge, as most teams only utilize a handful of specialized capabilities, rendering the rest unnecessary.Stabilizing your customer service needs a better determination of the right help desk software for your company. This calls for understanding your needs and selecting the tools that align with them.This guide will briefly explore the top alternatives to Freshdesk, highlighting their key features, costs, and optimal use cases. Why should you look for Freshdesk Alternatives?Here are some of the reasons why consumers are looking for Freshdesk alternatives, as reviewed and updated from customer reviews, community forums, and other similar sources:Freshdesk’s sophisticated features are only accessible on higher-priced subscriptions, which may not be affordable for everyone.Some users find Freshdesk unintuitive, making it difficult to utilize efficiently.Freshdesk’s integration procedure might be tedious and time-consuming.Many customers have voiced fear that Freshdesk’s functionality may be overwhelming.These reasons make it a significant motivator for customers to seek alternatives to Freshdesk vs Zendesk.Top Freshdesk Alternatives for 2024In our list, many customer service software offers free plans or trials, allowing you to test their features and determine the best fit.Now, let’s dive into the 10 best Freshdesk alternatives and explore their key features and target audiences:1. LIKE.TGWe will, of course, toot our own horn first. LIKE.TG is a perfect help desk software alternative for Freshdesk. This is mainly because LIKE.TG is a modern, sophisticated help desk software that streamlines customer service through excellent customer support tools and self-service features.LIKE.TG includes features like:AI Copilot for customer supportRobust ticketing softwareKnowledge base softwareEfficient help desk automationExtensive help desk customizationCustomer satisfaction surveyMultilingual help deskMobile help desk appIntegrationA user-friendlycustomer portalTask managementInsightfulreports and analyticsTop-notchsecurityBenefits of LIKE.TGBetter usability: LIKE.TG’s user interface is easily accessible for all its users.Unlimited agent pricing: Saves business costs by allowing unlimited agents rather than paying per agent.Free migration: LIKE.TG enables users to transfer from other customer service help desks free of charge.Best multibranding and customization support: Suitable for any business since it offers customizable customer support that users can customize according to their needs. Users can also navigate through the customer service portal to see areas they seek assistance.Emails to ticket conversion: Uses a ticketing system that enables users to track, monitor, and convert emails to tickets from customers to agents.Better customer satisfaction: Works under appropriate SLA’s thus running with the aim of satisfying customers’ needs.Multilingual help desk: Offers a multilingual help desk that bridges language barrier and enhances communication.Enhanced multilingual AI: Provides an AI feature that summarizes ticket conversion and KB articles, translates text into multiple languages, and helps in creation of SEO content articles.Efficient integration: With LIKE.TG’s integration function, users can connect their preferred tools and apps to streamline workflow, clear up clogged data, and boost productivity.Robust automation: LIKE.TG has a robust automation feature which helps in routing repetitive tasks, reducing manual effort, and increasing agent productivity.Integrated mobile help desk app: Offers an up-to-date intuitive mobile customer service app that allows users to work from any location.To know more about LIKE.TG features, refer to this video:LIKE.TG pricingLIKE.TG is a friendly help desk that saves costs for every user. Startups can enjoy free access to LIKE.TG for a full year at no cost.LIKE.TG also offers two pricing styles as follows:Agent-Based plans:Scale: $25 for 3 agents/monthGrowth: $50 for 3 agents/monthEnterprise: $75 for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential: $799 per monthPro: $1499 per monthBusiness: Contact us Number of agents: 103100Save with LIKE.TG* agent/month billed annually agent/month billed annually$240/yearScale $25 for 3 agents Additional agents at $15/moGrowth$15 for 1 agent$2,592/yearGrowth $50 for 3 agents Additional agents at $32/moPro$49 for 1 agent$4,548/yearEnterprise $75 for 3 agents Additional agents at $48/moEnterprise$79 for 1 agentTo reach out, don’t hesitate to contact the LIKE.TG support team. You can also start a 15 day free trial or arrange for a live demo.2. HubSpot Service HubHubSpot Service Hub is a cloud-based customer platform for growing businesses. It provides a suite of tools for inbound marketing, sales, and customer service with the goal of helping businesses attract, engage, and delight customers.ProsAll in one platform for marketing, sales, and customer support.Has free CRM.Easy to use.ConsNeed to pay for additional users.PricingPricing starts at $20 per month.3. IntercomIntercom is an alternative that excels in self-service support. It enables businesses to communicate and engage with their customers in real-time.It also allows businesses to have conversations with their customers at different stages of the customer journey, including customer onboarding, support, sales, and marketing.ProsSetting up Intercom takes less time.Has a robust knowledge base.Easily integrates with your website.ConsLacks in reporting and knowledge base customization compared to other options.PricingPricing starts at $99 per month.4. ZendeskZendesk is a robust customer support software suitable for enterprise companies. It is a customer service and engagement platform that provides various tools and software solutions to help businesses manage customer support, interactions, and relationships.It offers a range of features designed to streamline and enhance customer service operations.ProsServes many customization options.Has extensive and powerful reporting and analytics.Robust integration with third-party apps.Supports multiple languages.ConsQuite expensive for small businesses.PricingPricing starts at $19 per user per month.5. Salesforce Service CloudSalesforce Service Cloud is an ideal alternative for teams using Salesforce CRM. Salesforce Service Cloud seamlessly integrates with other Salesforce products to provide a better customer experience.ProsOffers extensive customization options.Easy to set up.Offers free 30-day trial.Allows integrations with over 1,000 other platforms.ConsHas no chat surveys.A bit expensive with no free plan.PricingPricing starts at$25 per user per month.6. Zoho DeskZoho Desk is a better choice for sales-focused teams. It is designed to help businesses manage and streamline their customer service operations.Zoho Desk provides a centralized platform for handling customer queries, support tickets, and other related activities. Moreover, integrating Zoho Desk with your customer service can streamline your customer service operations.ProsOffers a free plan.Provides automation on all plans.Has multiple integrations.Can be accessed on mobile (offers a mobile app).ConsCustomization can be less flexible compared to other platforms.PricingPricing starts at $18 per user per month.7. HappyFoxHappyFox is a suitable choice for teams seeking project management features. It is designed to help businesses efficiently manage and resolve customer inquiries, support tickets, and other types of requests.HappyFox provides a centralized system for tracking and organizing customer interactions, allowing businesses to streamline their support processes and enhance customer satisfaction.ProsSupports live chat.Conducts progressive surveys.Offers case management feature.ConsSome users feel the email management capabilities are insufficient.PricingPricing starts at $29 per user per month.8. Help ScoutHelp Scout is a perfect alternative for growing teams. It provides meaningful tools to enhance the user experience for customers and your team.ProsOffers an interface for tracking emails and replies.Robust tagging system.Comprehensive workflow automation feature.ConsCustomization options for the knowledge base are limited.PricingPricing starts at $20 per user per month.9. KayakoKayako is a customer service software platform that enables businesses to effectively manage and support their customers.It provides a suite of tools and features designed to streamline customer support processes and enhance the overall customer experience.ProsProvides a robust ticketing system.Has multiple departments/groups.User-friendly interface.Has an SLA Management.ConsPricing varies, and ticketing is slow.PricingContact Kayako.10. LiveAgentLiveAgent is an excellent choice for live chat support. It provides best features that increases customer support online.ProsReliable ticket management feature.Has insightful reports and analytics.Supports self-service.Has a back-end tools that make it easy to get new accounts.ConsNew features require extra pay.Complex mobile apps.PricingPricing starts at $15 per month per user.Considerations for selecting the right help deskWhile selecting the best customer service software, you need to consider different issues. The following are some of the factors to consider:Your company’s needs: First, learn what features you need. Secondly, do extensive research on the features the customer service software you want provides.Cost and pricing plans: Learn about monthly and yearly pricing plans evaluating them with your pricing plan.Customer reviews: Check on official sites and learn as you got customers’ reviews about the help desk software.Scalability: Choose a customer service software that can adapt and grow with your company. Start with a starter pack, and if it favors your growth, upgrade to growth packages or enterprise packages.Productivity: Investigate the software’s productivity. The main question you should answer is, can the software help your customer service in handling your daily routine tasks?Integration: Select a customer service software that you can integrate its features with your customer service to simplify your agents’ workload.Support: Select a customer service software that can support you 24/7.Table summary of the 10 alternatives to FreshdeskThe following is a comprehensive table summary of the top 10 Freshdesk competitors.NameFeaturesPricing planLIKE.TGAI in customer supportRobust ticketing softwareKnowledge base softwareEfficient help desk automationExtensive help desk customizationCustomer satisfaction surveyMultilingual help deskMobile help desk appIntegrationA user-friendlycustomer portalTask managementInsightfulreports and analyticsTop-notchsecurityStarting at $25 for 3 agents/month.HubSpot Service hubSimple ticketingTeam mail and shared inboxReporting dashboardIntegration with sales and marketing hubStarting at $20/month/user.IntercomCustomizable messengerAutomated messagesIn-app chatTeam inboxStarting at $99/month/user.ZendeskOmnichannel SupportCustomizable DashboardsAnalyticsAI ChatbotsStarting at $19/month/user.Salesforce Service cloudAI-powered serviceCase managementIntegration with SalesforceCRMStarting at $25/month/user.Zoho DeskMultichannel supportCustomizable workflowsAI-powered chatbotsIntegrationsStarting at $18/month/user.HappyfoxTicketing systemKnowledge base creationHelp desk reportsTask management systemStarting at $29/user per month.Help scoutCollaborationCustom workflowsAutomationReportingStarting at $20/month/user.KayakoMultichannel supportCustomizable chatbotsLive chatSocial media monitoringContact Kayako.LiveAgentChat routingFile transferSocial media integrationMultilingual supportStarting at $15/month/user.Choosing the best Freshdesk alternatives!While choosing a customer service software, you need to have a clear view of the best functionalities and features, pros, cons, and pricing.In summary, the listed Freshdesk alternatives provide a range of features and pricing options to meet your company’s unique needs. By exploring these alternatives, you can find the right customer service solution that aligns with your business goals and ensures excellent customer support.If you’re looking to provide your team with a comprehensive customer service software solution that is user-friendly, affordable and provides a range of cloud-based help desk features, LIKE.TG help desk is the way to go.

Customers are increasingly drawn to companies that can quickly and effectively handle their issues or queries. In a world where time is of the essence and patience wears thin, the speed at which a business responds to its clients can make or break its reputation.Therefore, businesses need to evaluate their support team’s ability to handle its workload efficiently. One way to do this is to measure the average handle time.In this blog, we will discuss what average handle time is, how to calculate it, and tips to reduce it. What does average handle time mean?Average handle time (AHT) is a metric used in customer service departments that measures the average time it takes for a support agent to handle customer issues or resolve tickets.It takes into account all the time spent on an issue, not just the time spent actively talking to customers. It includes the time customers are on hold and the time agents spend working on the issue outside of support calls.A lower AHT indicates a knowledgeable and well-prepared staff capable of promptly addressing customer issues, while a higher AHT indicates the need for additional training to close knowledge gaps or, at worst, deficiencies in the product.AHT is employed to assess the effectiveness and productivity of customer support agents and the overall success of a customer service team.What is a goodaverage handle time?A good AHT varies depending on the company, customer interaction methods, the complexity of issues to be resolved, the products or services offered, and the company’s perception of a satisfactory customer experience.Other factors that determine a good AHT includes:The size of the businessThe unique challenges of the industryThe business’s customer service strategyHow to calculate average handle timeAHT is determined for each communication channel offered by a business due to the complexity and interaction dynamics involved in delivering support.For example, the AHT for phone support is calculated as follows:In the previous equation, the:Total talk time refers to the combined durations of the agent actively conversing with the customer in a call.Total hold time is the total time a customer is placed on hold across all conversations regarding the issue.Total after-call work time is the total time agents spend on tasks associated with a call, such as updating records or documentation.Total calls handled is the number of customer support calls, encompassing both incoming and outgoing calls.The following table lists the AHT formulas for other communication channels:Communication channelAHT formulaEmailAHT = Total time from issue start to resolution / Total number of emailsLive ChatAHT = Total time from chat start to issue resolution / Total number of chatsAHT exampleIf a support agent had 5 phone calls from customers and spent a total of 20 minutes talking to them, put them on hold for a total of 5 minutes, and took a total of 5 minutes to follow up, then the average handle time would be:(20 minutes + 5 minutes + 5 minutes) / 5 calls = 6 minutes per call7 Tips to reduce average handle timeEvery client wishes for the issue they present to the support agents for resolution to be handled in the shortest time possible.The following are some ways a company can reduce its average handle time to improve the customer experience:Enhance access to informationThis involves ensuring that your agents have easy access to all the information they need to resolve a customer’s issue.Providing quick and easy access to comprehensive information can be done with the help of:Knowledge basesContact management systemsCustomer historiesProduct detailsThese reduce the time agents spend searching for relevant data during customer interactions, leading to a shorter AHT.Monitor each support agent’s performanceThis average handle time tip involves carefully keeping track of each support agents AHT to know how fast and efficient they are at providing necessary responses and resolutions to customers.Support agent performance can be monitored using the following the metrics:Hold timeTalk timeNumber of transfersNumber of missed callsBy watching each support agent’s performance, you can identify and address their weaknesses to improve their AHT.Train your support agents frequentlyRegular training sessions keep your support agents up to date with the latest product or service information and support techniques, leading to a reduction in AHT as they are able address issues accurately and promptly.Invest in efficient support toolsProvide agents with advanced and user-friendly support tools, such as:Internal help desk service software: Enhances customer interactions by providing a comprehensive platform for addressing queries and resolving issues. It often includes a ticketing system, knowledge base, automation features, and customization options, enabling businesses to offer prompt and efficient support.Contact management software: Helps businesses manage customer relationships by providing instant access to relevant customer data so that agents can tailor interactions to customer needs, preferences, and expectations.Omnichannel communication: Integrates communication channels like email and social media into a unified system. This enables consistent and seamless communication, allowing businesses to engage with customers on their preferred platforms and in their preferred languages to maintain a cohesive experience.With the aid of these tools, agents can effortlessly manage customer interactions, which improves efficiency in the resolution process and lowers AHT.Implement self-service optionsImplementing self-service options can effectively reduce average handling time by allowing customers to handle simple issues on their own.This can be done by providing the following resources to handle common and repetitive customer queries:Frequently asked questions (FAQs)Community forumKnowledge baseAccording to Higher Logic, 77% of customers have a more favorable perception of organizations that provide self-service options to assist customers seeking support.By encouraging self-help, routine questions can be resolved without customers needing to interact with an agent, resulting in a decrease in AHT as support agents can focus on more complex issues.Utilize workflow automationWith the right help desk software, you can automate repetitive tasks and workflow processes, expediting issue resolution and allowing agents to focus on more intricate aspects of customer interactions.Automation can be used in several different forms:Canned responses: For frequently asked customer questions, canned responses can be used to allow customer support agents to respond quickly and consistently, reducing time spent on each customer interaction.Follow-up actions: Certain follow-up tasks, such as sending updates, email notifications, reminders, and alerts to customers can be automated by defining a service-level agreement (SLA) and enforcing it with your customer support software. This keeps agents from missing support deadlines, decreases overall handle time, and allows agents to focus on the next customer.Provide proactive assistanceCompanies can improve service efficiency and customer satisfaction by being proactive in customer support.This involves anticipating needs and resolving issues before they become larger problems. By addressing potential issues ahead of time, the number of inquiries decreases and issues are resolved quicker. This leads to decreased AHT and increased customer loyalty and trust.Why is average handling time important?When a company strives for an excellent AHT, it enjoys the following outcomes:Increased customer satisfactionCustomers appreciate having their issues resolved in a timely manner. In Time To Win: The Consumer Patience Study, customer experience expert Jay Baer found that 62% of customers feel disappointed when a business responds slower than they expect.Therefore, extending waiting periods and rushing customer interactions just to reduce AHT are likely to result in customer dissatisfaction, potentially leading customers to consider switching to a competitor.A well-managed average handling time is crucial. It demonstrates to customers that their satisfaction is at the heart of the company’s customer service ethos, setting the stage for a successful, long-term customer relationship.Improved customer service team efficiencyAHT helps determine how efficiently customer inquiries are handled by the support team. A lower AHT indicates that agents are resolving issues quickly, leading to more customers being served in less time.By monitoring AHT, companies can identify opportunities to streamline processes and offer better support agent training. This can lead to cost savings for the organization.Better allocation of resourcesUnderstanding AHT can assist in the allocation of resources, management of the workforce, and the creation of appropriate customer support schedules.Observing AHT and its contributing factors ensure that the correct number of agents is present at all times, avoiding the issue of excessive or insufficient staff. Such measures directly influence service levels and operational expenses.Improved customer experienceImproving the quality of customer interactions is a crucial aspect of reducing average handling time for businesses.According to Salesforce, 89% of customer are willing to make another purchase after a positive customer service experience.When customers consistently have positive experiences, they are more likely to become loyal to the brand and may even recommend the company to others.Therefore, it is important to minimize hold time, reduce post-call work time, and resolve issues quickly. All of these lower AHT and result in an enhanced customer experience.Accurate evaluation of agent performanceAHT is just one tool that businesses can use to evaluate the promptness and effectiveness of their support agents in resolving inquiries.AHT can be determined for the entire team or an individual agent. It serves as a useful starting point for defining future training goals and identifying areas for improvement.Combine quality with speed to reduce average handle timeTo improve customer service, organizations need to measure AHT because it provides critical insight into support efficiency, customer satisfaction, and business performance.Optimizing average handle time supports operational objectives and a commitment to excellent service.To provide better customer service and improve the customerexperience, use LIKE.TG. For a live demonstration or to discover the benefits LIKE.TG can offer your support team, start a free trial. Please contactthe LIKE.TG support team if you have any questions.Related articles10 Key Customer Satisfaction Metrics to Measure in 202410 Important Customer Service KPIs to Track9 Effective Metrics to Measure Customer Loyalty

In today’s business landscape, the seamless integration of diverse tools and applications has become a pivotal element in the success of many companies. This integration streamlines processes, enhances productivity, and enables a more efficient workflow.One of the instrumental solutions facilitating this integration is Zapier, a platform that connects various apps to automate tasks and boost operational efficiency effortlessly.In this article, we’ll delve into the integration of two significant business tools, LIKE.TG and Firmao, made possible through Zapier.Integrating LIKE.TG with Firmao serves as a prime example of how modern businesses can leverage technology to create a more cohesive and interconnected work environment. What is LIKE.TG?LIKE.TG is customer service software that helps businesses handle support operations by converting support emails into tickets, automating repetitive tasks, and streamlining the workflow.Its automated help desk ticketing tools enable the management of customer service tasks through an online, centralized platform.What is Firmao?Firmao is online CRM software designed to monitor and oversee customer-related information. By establishing a customer database, it streamlines the customer acquisition process, enhances conversion rates throughout the sales journey, and enables effective and thorough service for customers.Firmao plays a crucial role in managing sales departments and functions.Integration purposeIntegration between LIKE.TG and Firmao, facilitated by Zapier, establishes a bridge between these two platforms, letting them communicate and share information seamlessly. This means that data generated or modified in one application can be automatically transferred to the other, eliminating the need for manual input and reducing the risk of errors.How does LIKE.TG’s integration with Firmao work?Zapier acts as the mediator in this integration, enabling users to create automated workflows, known as Zaps, between LIKE.TG and Firmao.A Zap typically consists of a trigger and one or more actions. The trigger is an event in one app that initiates the workflow, and the actions are the tasks that follow in the connected app.For example, a trigger could be a new ticket created in LIKE.TG, and the corresponding action could be the creation of a new client or update in Firmao.This automation ensures that important data is synchronized in real time, providing users with accurate and up-to-date information across both platforms.Critical data is synchronized instantly, ensuring users have precise and current information accessible on both platforms.Available triggers and actionsLIKE.TGCreate contactTriggers when a new contact is created.Update contactTriggers when an existing contact is updated.Create contact groupTriggers when a new contact group is created.Update contact groupTriggers when an existing contact group is updated.Create ticketTriggers when a new support ticket is created.Create ticket noteTriggers when a new support note is added to an existing ticket.Update ticketTriggers when an existing ticket is updated.Create ticket replyTriggers when a new message is added to an existing ticket.FirmaoNew transactionTriggers when a transaction is created or updated.New customerTriggers when a new customer is created or updated.New sales opportunityTriggers when a sales opportunity is created or updated.New taskTriggers when a task is created or updated.Benefits resulting from Integrating LIKE.TG with FirmaoFirmao provides:Data centralization:Customer information and communications are consolidated in a single location, facilitating convenient access for employees and enhancing the efficiency of customer service.Time savings:Quickly generate documents like invoices, quotes, and orders.Automation:Automate simple, repetitive tasks such as sending emails or creating quotes, or more complex activities such as qualifying leads or tracking sales progress.LIKE.TG provides:Improved customer service: With a centralized system for managing customer inquiries, support teams can provide timely and consistent assistance, enhancing overall customer satisfaction.Enhanced collaboration: Promotes collaboration among support team members by providing access to the latest information across departments, allowing for better coordination and faster issue resolution.Efficient issue resolution: LIKE.TG streamlines the process of logging, tracking, and resolving customer issues, leading to quicker problem resolution.Scalability: As organizations grow, LIKE.TG can scale to accommodate increased support needs and a growing customer base.ConclusionThe integration of LIKE.TG with Firmao through Zapier represents a strategic move for companies seeking to optimize their operations. By embracing such integrations, businesses can harness the power of automation to drive efficiency, reduce errors, and ultimately enhance overall productivity.

Businesses strive to create a world where every customer’s expectation is not just met but anticipated, where providing support is not just about customer satisfaction, but about creating lasting moments that linger in their customers’ minds.It is no secret that each exchange between a business and a customer serves as a springboard for creating powerful impressions with customers. However, do you know what your customers want?With customers continuously adjusting their expectations and having access to seemingly endless options and information, businesses are now forced to understand customer service expectations better than they ever have before, modify their brands, and support their operations accordingly to establish enduring customer relationships.This blog is a guide to decoding customer expectations. Let’s explore where anticipation meets fulfillment, understanding prevails, and the customer’s voice is crystal clear. What are customer expectations?Customer expectations refer to the standards and quality that customers anticipate when interacting with a company, utilizing a product, or reaching out to a customer service team.These expectations will vary, depending on factors such as:Previous experiencesMarketing messagesIndustry normsType of companyCustomer locationIt’s important to understand that customers have high expectations of your business, and failing to meet their expectations can result in them choosing a competitor.This means that you only have a limited number of opportunities to make a positive impression.Meeting or exceeding customer expectations is crucial for building customer satisfaction and loyalty.Types of customer expectationsCustomer expectations can be categorized into various types based on different aspects of customer interactions with a product, service, or company. Here are several common types:Explicit expectationsThese expectations are the fundamental needs that customers express to you directly throughout their interactions with you. When a customer chooses to purchase from you, they have defined expectations.These expectations may include:Operational costs when using the productThe quality of customer serviceTiming for delivery of updates or new productsIf you sell computers, for instance, a buyer may enter your store with specific requirements, such as a certain price range or set of features they are seeking in a laptop.Implicit expectationsImplicit customer expectations refer to the fundamental presumptions that consumers have about your company, service, or product.Customers have these expectations even though they aren’t explicitly stated.Before their initial engagement with you, customers’ implicit expectations are frequently shaped by:Online researchWord-of-mouth recommendationsPrior customer interactions with related companiesInterpersonal expectationsThese are assumptions or beliefs customers hold about how they will be treated by your support team when they contact customer support.Interpersonal expectations could include:Clear and respectful communicationTrustworthiness and transparencyActive listening by support agentsEmpathy in customer serviceGood conflict resolution skillsDigital expectationsThese are expectations that customers have about their interactions with your business online, be it via social media, interactive PDF documents, interactive assessments, mobile apps, or websites.It is crucial that these channels be simple to use and offer insightful information about your company, its goods, and its services.For example, if you are a restaurant owner, customers would expect the following:A website that is simple to navigateA clear view of your online menu with pricesQuick and reliable channels to inquire about your servicesDynamic performance expectationsThis relates to how customers anticipate your product or service to develop over time to meet their changing requirements.Companies should revise their customer expectations in response to market changes and remain proactive by:Considering competitor advancementsRealigning their business goalsEvaluating new products in the marketWhat are common examples of customer expectations?Fully comprehending your customers’ needs and expectations is vital to the success of your business.The following are some of customer expectation examples that can help you gain insight into your customers’ expectations:High-quality goods or servicesCustomers expect the products they purchase will meet their needs and perform as advertised. They expect products to be well-designed, visually pleasing, and free from defects or issues.This expectation encompasses factors such as:DurabilityReliabilityFunctionalityExceptional self-service optionsCustomers expect self-service options that are user-friendly and built into the customer experience. This enables customers to resolve their queries independently and find answers without the need to contact support.According to a Higher Logic study, 77% of respondents indicate that they have a more favorable opinion of businesses that provide self-service options for customers in need of assistance.Self-service options should meet and exceed customer expectations to enhance the overall customer experience.Common self-service resources include:Knowledge baseHow-to videosCustomer portalsManuals and documentationCommunity forumsTrustworthiness and consistencyCustomers expect businesses to be dependable and trustworthy. They want to be able to rely on the company to consistently deliver on its promises. This includes:Delivering products and services on timeMaintaining established levels of supportFulfilling commitments made during the sales processTransparency and honesty in all activitiesCustomers want businesses to be forthright and transparent about their products, services, pricing, and policies.They expect clear and accurate information to be provided up front, without hidden fees or misleading marketing tactics.Customers appreciate businesses that are honest about any limitations or potential issues associated with their offerings.Personalization and customization of customer experiencesCustomers want experiences tailored to their preferences, needs, and interests. They expect businesses to understand their unique requirements and provide personalized recommendations, suggestions, or solutions.This expectation extends to personalized communication, such as emails or targeted advertisements.Outstanding experience with customer service teamsCustomers expect and deserve to be treated with respect, courtesy, and professionalism at each touchpoint throughout their interactions with a business.Furthermore, they anticipate support agents to be easily accessible, attentive, and responsive, providing timely and helpful solutions when they have questions, concerns, or issues.Availability of various communication channelsCustomers expect ease of access and convenience when reaching out to businesses for support inquiries or requests.This means they expect to be able to contact companies via the channels they are most comfortable with.Omnichannel support allows customers to seek assistance through multiple channels, making it easier for them to connect and interact with support agents for faster issue resolution.Some of the customer communication options that customers expect businesses to use include:Social mediaWebsiteEmailsWeb formsStrategies for managing customer expectationsControlling client expectations is essential to preserving trust and satisfaction. Here are some helpful customer expectations management tips:Gain insight and familiarity with your customer baseTo meet the expectations of your clients, it is important to have a thorough understanding of their needs and interests. Basic demographic data such as age, gender, and location are not sufficient.Therefore, conducting market research by communicating with both new and returning customers can be extremely helpful in understanding what they desire from your business.By paying attention to their responses, you can gain a deeper understanding of what your audience wants and make sure that you are delivering it.Offer omnichannel options based on customer preferencesProviding customers with multiple ways to get in touch with customer service teams can assist in delivering a seamless experience.By merging different communication methods into a single unified workspace, customer service teams can handle all interactions seamlessly and respond to customer inquiries promptly and efficiently.Set clear goals that align with meeting customer expectationsYour support teams, who interact with clients daily, have a big say in whether your business lives up to its customers’ expectations.Establishing defined targets centered around meeting customer expectations is the best way to guarantee that your agents give your clients the level of service they need.Additionally, make a list of the most frequently asked questions and searched topics on the company website and use that to implement an FAQ section or as the foundation of a knowledge base to enable self-service support.Be proactive in your customer service approachThe greatest companies go the extra mile to find out deeper customer expectations when responding to complaints and take proactive customer service measures, such as:Collaborating with the client to plan their customer success journeyAssessing past accomplishments and failed expectationsHandling any potential customer issues that may lead to failure in meeting expectationsAdopt a customer-centric cultureTo ensure business success, it is crucial to adopt a customer-centric approach.This means that the needs and expectations of the customers should be kept at the forefront of all business operations, from the first interaction with the customer to the follow-up after a purchase has been made.By prioritizing the customers and catering to their needs, businesses can build strong and long-lasting relationships with their customers, leading to increased customer loyalty and business growth.Seek your customers’ feedback regularlyCollecting feedback from your customers is a sure way to determine how well your business is satisfying their needs.You should regularly send surveys that ask customers about their:Level of satisfactionEase of access to informationPurchasing processProduct suitabilityBy analyzing this data, you can identify areas for improvement and keep track of your customer satisfaction score to ensure that your customers’ expectations are being met.Find out how your competitors are exceeding customer expectationsCustomers compare experiences between brands. This shapes their expectations when they begin considering your business and its products or services.Focus on enhancing the area where your competitors are outperforming your business.Whatever they’re doing the best, their customers will be very vocal about it in testimonials, case studies, and reviews. Use this information to improve your brand and gain an edge over the competition.Why exceeding customer expectations is importantHigher customer satisfaction: Going above and beyond customer expectations leads to higher levels of customer satisfaction. Satisfied customers are more likely to return and recommend your business to others.Repeat business: When customers are confident that your company will meet their requirements and expectations, they are more likely to return for future purchases.Increases customer loyalty: Providing excellent service and exceeding customer expectations results in loyalty, positive recommendations, and sustainable business growth.Yotpo research found that 59.3% of brand-loyal customers are likely to recommend their favorite brand to friends and family, which results in new networks of prospective customers.Consistency in the quality of customer service significantly influences a customer’s willingness to pay, advocate for, and remain loyal to the brand.Boosts brand reputation: When you exceed your customers’ expectations, they are more likely to share their positive experiences with others, which can have a significant positive impact on your brand image. You can establish a stronger reputation for your brand that will help you stand out in a crowded market.Gives your business a competitive advantage: When customers receive a level of service or product quality that surpasses their expectations, they tend to remember your business and prefer it over others in the future.Reduces churn: Companies frequently deal with customer turnover or client churn. Meeting customer expectations stabilizes the customer relations, lowers the risk of losing business to rivals, and promotes sustainable revenue growth.Meet all your customers’ expectationsThe foundation of any successful business is its ability to meet its customers’ expectations.Get to know your target market and establish clear goals and standards that align with these expectations to ensure you completely satisfy them.By exceeding expectations and actively listening to customer feedback, you can build a reputation for quality and become a leader in your industry.Remember, satisfied customers are more than just a revenue source, they are advocates and influencers that can propel your brand to new heights.Book alive demoto see howLIKE.TGhelps you understand and meet your customers’ expectations better. Start afree trialto explore its many features. If you have any questions about the product and its capabilities, contact theLIKE.TG support team.Do you have any additional ideas for how to exceed customer expectations that you think we should add to this article? Kindly share your opinions and suggestions in the comments below.

Customer support is the backbone of any successful business. If you want to provide your customers with the best possible experience, you must have the right software to help you do that. But how do you know which is the best customer support software for your needs?While Zendesk is the most recognized name in the market, exploring Zendesk alternatives and comparing their features to Zendesk’s is essential to making a good choice. This calls for an understanding of your needs and the selection of tools that align with them.In this blog, we will examine a range of Zendesk alternatives, analyzing their features, strengths, and key differences. Ready to find your perfect customer support software? Let’s get started! Why should you look for Zendesk alternatives?Some of the reasons why consumers are looking for alternatives to Freshdesk vs Zendesk as sourced from customer reviews, community forums, and other similar sources, are:Zendesk’s sophisticated features are only accessible on higher-priced subscriptions, which are not affordable for everyone.Some users find Zendesk difficult to utilize efficiently.Zendesk’s integration procedure is tedious and time-consuming for some.Many customers have voiced fear that Zendesk’s functionality may be overwhelming.Top Zendesk alternatives to considerThere are numerous alternatives to Zendesk that cater to diverse business needs. Let’s dive into the best alternatives to Zendesk and explore their key features and target audiences.1. LIKE.TGOne of the best Zendesk alternatives for startups and small-to-medium businesses.If you are looking for a user-friendly and comprehensive help desk ticketing system that offers a range of cloud-based features, we highly recommend our very own BoldDesk.LIKE.TG is a modern customer service software platform that uses cutting-edge customer support tools to help users organize support requests, collaborate with customers and teammates, and automate repetitive tasks to enhance and streamline the overall customer experience.LIKE.TG is a highly scalable and intuitive solution for businesses who want to offer exceptional customer support for business growth.Key featuresAI copilot for customer supportRobust ticketing systemMultilingual knowledge base softwareHelp desk automationHelp desk customizationTask managementReports and analyticsSecurity and compliance featuresUser-friendlycustomer portalSeamless integrationsMobile appAdvantages of LIKE.TG featuresIntegrations: LIKE.TG offers an integration feature that allows users to connect with their preferred tools and applications, streamlining their workflow, organizing data, and increasing overall productivity.Robust automation features: LIKE.TG offers a range of powerful automation options to manage ticket routing, eliminate repetitive tasks, reduce manual work, and enhance agent productivity.Email-to-ticket conversion: LIKE.TG utilizes a ticketing system that automatically converts customer emails into tickets, allowing agents to manage and address customer inquiries effectively.Enhanced usability: LIKE.TG is designed with a user-friendly interface, ensuring that both service agents and customers can easily navigate and utilize the software.PricingAgent-Based plans:Scale: $25 for 3 agents/monthGrowth: $50 for 3 agents/monthEnterprise: $75 for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential: $799 per monthPro: $1499 per monthBusiness: Contact us Number of agents: 103100Save with LIKE.TG* agent/month billed annually agent/month billed annually$5,040/yearScale $25 for 3 agents Additional agents at $15/moSuite Team$55 for 1 agent$7,392/yearGrowth $50 for 3 agents Additional agents at $32/moSuite Growth$89 for 1 agent$8,868/yearEnterprise $75 for 3 agents Additional agents at $48/moSuite Professional$115 for 1 agentLIKE.TG offers a 15-day free trial and live demos.For inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact the LIKE.TG support team.ProsOffers cost-effective and flexible pricing plansAllows seamless integration with third-party softwareProvides automation tools that streamline repetitive tasksProvides swift support response, ensuring that users receive timely assistanceOffers free and smooth migration, enabling users to save time and migration costsKey differences between LIKE.TG and ZendeskFeatures and unlimited agents: As an example, LIKE.TG offers $1,999/month for unlimited agents with all features included, while Zendesk charges $7,900/month for 100 agents with several major features excluded.User interface: In comparison to Zendesk, LIKE.TG offers a more contemporary and user-friendly interface.Migration: LIKE.TG offers free, expert migration to help customers switch from Zendesk to BoldDesk.Money-back guarantee: In special cases LIKE.TG offers a 30-day money-back guarantee with a 100% refund, no excuse needed.To learn more about LIKE.TG features, take a look at the next video.2. GorgiasGorgias is one of the Zendesk alternatives suitable for small businesses that utilize Shopify.Gorgias is help desk software created specifically for e-commerce companies, with over 12,000 merchants using it.The Gorgias customer support platform helps in connecting and managing all customer service communication channels: email, chat, phone, social media, and SMS in one dashboard. Major e-commerce systems like Shopify all smoothly integrate with it.PricingStarts at $10 for 50 tickets/monthProsAffordable pricing plansShopify integration for e-commerceHas robust customization optionsConsPricing varies with the ticket limitsKey differences between Gorgias and ZendeskPrimary objective: Gorgias is tailored specifically for e-commerce businesses and integrates with numerous e-commerce platforms. Conversely, Zendesk is a broader customer service program.User interface: In comparison to Zendesk, Gorgias offers a more contemporary and user-friendly interface.3. Zoho DeskZoho Desk is one of the alternatives to Zendesk for sales-focused teams.Zoho Desk is designed to help businesses manage their customer service operations. It provides a centralized platform with features such as multichannel support, customizable workflows, AI-powered chatbots, and integration to help users in handling customer queries, support tickets, and other related activities.PricingStarts at $14/user/monthProsProvides a free planOffers cost-effective pricing optionsIncludes automation in all available plansConsThe free plan lacks integrationsKey differences between Zoho Desk and ZendeskCost-effectiveness: Zoho Desk provides a free plan suitable for small teams with limited budgets, whereas Zendesk primarily caters to larger teams with greater financial resources.Automation emphasis: While Zendesk includes automation features, Zoho Desk primarily focuses on its AI-powered chatbot.4. HubSpot Service HubHubspot Service Hub is one of the Zendesk alternatives good for teams in need of a comprehensive CRM tool.HubSpot is a CRM tool that includes a ticketing system and live chat capabilities. It offers a customer service solution called Service Hub, which is particularly advantageous for teams already using HubSpot’s CRM. These products seamlessly integrate, providing agents with relevant information to personalize their support efforts.PricingStarts at $20/month ($18 per month when paid annually) for two users.ProsA comprehensive solution for managing marketing, sales, support, and contentAutomation for marketing and sales tasksA unified content management systemConsOnly includes annual contractsKey differences between Hubspot and ZendeskEcosystem: TheHubSpot Service Hub ecosystem allows for seamless integration of various HubSpot applications. While Zendesk does offer some additional features, its ecosystem is not as advanced as HubSpot’s.Cross-functional team alignment: While the HubSpot Service Hub supports team collaboration and personalization in ticket routing, Zendesk can only allow ticket assignment to a specific team.5. FreshdeskFreshdesk is amongst the Zendesk alternatives suitable for larger teams.Freshdesk is a customer support tool that efficiently converts customer inquiries from emails, phone calls, web forms, chat, and social media channels into manageable tickets.PricingStarts at $15/monthProsIntegrates various customer channels into a shared inboxAllows an entire team to be aligned on one appOffers reply templates to respond to frequently asked or repetitive questionsConsHas limited communication channelsKey differences between Freshdesk and ZendeskCustomer support: Freshdesk offers 24/7 phone assistance to its customers even with lower subscription levels, whereas Zendesk only provides this option for more expensive Premier plans.User interface: Freshdesk offers a more intuitive interface compared to Zendesk, although it is less customizable.6. Help ScoutHelpscout is one of the descent Zendesk alternatives for expanding teams.Help Scout one of the Zendesk alternatives that has features for custom workflows, automation, and reporting to help users check what’s in the queue, reply to customers, assign conversations to teammates, and improve response times.Pricing Starts at$20/25 users/monthProsProvides an excellent user interface for monitoring emailsPossesses a tagging systemFeatures a workflow that streamlines and automates tasksConsLimited knowledge base customizationKey differences between Help Scout and ZendeskPricing: Help Scout offers cheaper plans than Zendesk.Target audience: Help Scout is better for startups and small businesses, while Zendesk is designed for mid-sized and large firms.7. IntercomIntercom is one of the Zendesk alternatives that is effective for self-service assistance and teams wanting chat-heavy features. Intercominterconnects every team and function, allowing them to interact and communicate with their customers in real time.Intercom combines an AI chatbot, help desk, and customer support. Additionally, it allows businesses to engage in conversations with customers at various points of the customer journey, such as onboarding, support, sales, and marketing.Pricing Starts at $39/seat/monthProsThe process of setting up Intercom requires minimal timeIt possesses a comprehensive knowledge baseIt integrates with company websitesConsHas extra usage-based and add-ons feesKey differences between Intercom and ZendeskUser interface design: Intercom’s user interface is contemporary and elegant. In contrast, Zendesk’s user interface may appear more organized and limiting.Messaging-centric approach: While Zendesk primarily concentrates on ticket management, Intercom provides a messaging-centric approach.8. HappyFoxHappyFox is one of the Zendesk alternatives for teams wanting project management features.HappyFox is cloud-web based customer service software that helps businesses in tracking and managing customer inquiries across diverse communication channels.It enables tracking and organizing customer interactions, helping businesses simplify their support procedures and improve customer satisfaction.PricingStarts at $29/user/monthProsProvides live chat supportConducts surveys that are progressive and beneficialOffers a case-management featureConsSome users find the email management capabilities lackingKey differences between HappyFox and ZendeskSmart rules: In comparison to Zendesk’s automation capabilities, HappyFox’s smart rules optimize automated workflows better.Task management: HappyFox provides a task management feature that aids agents in streamlining their workflows. Zendesk does not provide one on its own.9. GrooveGroove is one of the Zendesk alternatives built for enterprise and mid-market companies.Groove, one of the Zendesk competitors, is a sales engagement tool with functionalities such as customization, email management, and knowledge base software.Groove enables sales managers and leaders to execute their strategic plans in a smart way.With Groove, teams can collaborate on accounts in connected workspaces and admins can configure views and workflows by role or by team.PricingStarts at $20/user/monthProsBudget friendlyEasy to useReliable and effective customer serviceConsCustomization and automation options are limitedKey differences between Groove and ZendeskSimplicity and ease of use: While not as customizable as Zendesk, Groove is highly efficient and simple to set up and utilize.Personalized approach: Groove puts an emphasis on personalized customer experiences. Conversely, Zendesk frequently faces criticism regarding inadequate customer support.10. FrontFront is among the Zendesk alternatives for startups focused on account management.Front is a customer service platform with human interaction as its top priority. Front is an option for individuals seeking a user-friendly application, similar to Gmail, for managing customer service.The platform keeps all team discussions in a single place, a shared team inbox. It combines messages from email, live website chat, SMS, and social media channels.Pricing Starts at$19/10 users/monthProsOffers centralized communicationHas comprehensive mobile applicationAdaptable pricingConsLimited reporting and analytics featuresKey differences between Front and ZendeskCollaboration: Front’s software has numerous collaborative features. While Zendesk does offer some collaboration tools, they primarily focus on individual ticket assignment.Channel setup: Front’s channel setup is simpler and faster than Zendesk, which requires more extensive configuration and integration.11. HiverThis Zendesk alternatives solution is for customer support teams who use Gmail but require assistance in handling customer inquiries.Hiver is one of the Zendesk alternatives that integrates with Google Workspace to help teams collaborate on generic email IDs like operations@ and [email protected] than introducing a completely new system, Hiver improves a company’s existing Google Office tools by incorporating customer service functionalities like shared inboxes, analytics, and SLAs.Pricing Starts at $15/user/monthProsSetting up and managing ongoing tasks is easyCustomer support has prompt check-ins and quick responsesSupport emails can be handled with transparencyConsChanging the pricing plans oftenKey differences between Hiver and ZendeskPricing: Hiver offers budget-friendly pricing plans while Zendesk offers slightly expensive pricing plans with certain features that can only be accessed at an extra cost.Canned responses accessibility: Hiver allows every team member to share canned responses, unlike Zendesk, which only allows admins to share canned responses.12. KustomerKustomer is amongst the alternatives to Zendesk for teams wanting CRM capabilities.Kustomer is customer relationship management (CRM) platform that, unlike traditional ticket-based systems, places a strong emphasis on the customers themselves. This CRM wants businesses to have a complete understanding of every customer.PricingStarts at $89/user/monthProsConversational AI enables advanced automationThe interface is customizableCustomer segments can be easily createdConsChallenging learning processKey differences between Kustomer and ZendeskCustomer service: Kustomer provides a customer-oriented method for dealing with inquiries, whereas Zendesk primarily focuses on managing tickets.13. ServiceNowServiceNow is among the alternatives to Zendesk suitable for IT teams.ServiceNow is a cloud-based workflow automation platform that combines all customers’ IT needs into a single platform. Its purpose is to facilitate rapid development and automation. It enables the streamlining of operations and the connection of data and organizational divisions.PricingContact for pricingProsSuitable for IT operations and agile environmentsNumerous options available for ticket automationUser-friendly interfaceConsIt’s capabilities are limited primarily to ITSMKey differences between ServiceNow and ZendeskScope and functionality: ServiceNow provides an array of IT service management solutions. In contrast, Zendesk primarily concentrates on customer support and service management.Customization options: ServiceNow has adaptable customization features while Zendesk’s functionalities are comparatively more restricted.14. LiveAgentLiveAgent is one of the Zendesk competitors that serves as an option for live chat support.LiveAgent offers features that enhance the quality of customer assistance in an online setting. LiveAgent has 200+ native integrations to streamline business communication channels and manage customer interactions.PricingStarts at $9/agent/monthProsUsers are able to monitor conversations from all platformsIt is user-friendlyIt offers efficient back-end tools for acquiring new accountsConsThe mobile apps are not user-friendlyKey differences between LiveAgent and ZendeskPricing: LiveAgent offers a more affordable and flexible pricing structure than Zendesk.All-in-one solution: LiveAgent is an all-encompassing customer support platform, whereas Zendesk offers multiple products you have to purchase separately.15. HelpjuiceHelpjuice is one of the ideal Zendesk alternatives for a cloud-based knowledge base software.Helpjuice is user-friendly and efficient at helping enterprises build and maintain their knowledge bases.PricingStarts at $120/4 users/monthProsDependable customer supportEasy-to-use interfaceComprehensive knowledge base featuresConsLimited integrations, automation and customization optionsKey differences between Helpjuice and ZendeskThe main contrast between the two lies in their areas of emphasis. Zendesk primarily focuses on ticket management, whereas Helpjuice prioritizes the creation and maintenance of internal and external knowledge bases.This is one of Zendesk competitors that places a significant importance on team collaboration and content management above all other aspects.16. GladlyGladly is one of the Zendesk alternatives that is designed to streamline customer service operations. Gladly is an all-in-one platform, letting agents respond to customers across all channels from a single screen but without tickets.PricingStarts at $180/user/monthProsUser interface is user-friendlyExcellent call qualityPersonalized customer supportConsSeparate pricing rates for callsKey differences between Gladly and ZendeskCustomer-centricity: Gladly focuses mainly on individual customer conversations while Zendesk is more for ticket management.Considerations for selecting the right Zendesk alternativesWhen selecting the best Zendesk alternatives for your business, consider several factors:Your company’s needs: Figure out what features you need. Do extensive research on the help desks on the market and the features they provide.Scalability: See which help desk can adapt and grow with your company.Integration: Select a help desk that can be easily integrated with your current apps to simplify your agents’ workload.Customer reviews: Check on reputable software review sites and learn from real customers the pros and cons of each help desk.Support: See what kind of support is available for the Zendesk alternatives you evaluate. Is there self-service documentation? Can you reach live support if needed, either by chat or phone? See if their live support is available during the work hours of your time zone.Cost and pricing plans: Learn about monthly and yearly pricing plans, evaluating which combination of price and features works best for your business.Alternatives to Zendesk summary tableFollowing is a summary table to help you choose the best Zendesk alternatives.NameFeaturesPricingLIKE.TGAI copilot toolsTicketing systemKnowledge base softwareAutomationCustomizationTask managementReports and analyticsSecurityCustomer portalIntegrationsMobile appContact managementStarts at $25 for 3 agents/monthGorgiasTicketing systemIntegrationsLive chatAutomationStarts at $10/50 tickets/monthZoho DeskMultichannel supportCustomizable workflowsAI-powered chatbotsIntegrationsStarts at $14/user/monthHubSpot Service HubLive chatReportingTicketingIntegration with marketing and sales hubStarts at $20/monthFreshdeskOmnichannel ticketingReportingKnowledge base softwareAutomationStarts at $15/monthHelp ScoutCollaboration featuresCustom workflowsAutomationReportingStarts at $20/25 users/monthIntercomCustomizable messengerAutomated messagesIn-app chatTeam inboxStarts at $39/seat/monthHappyFoxTicketing systemKnowledge baseHelp desk reportsTask management systemStarts at $29/user/monthGrooveTicketing systemLive chatRemote access and controlShared inboxStarts at $20/user/monthFrontShared inboxLive chatReports and analyticsAutomationStarts at $19/user/monthHiverAutomationLive chatIntegrationsAnalytics and reportsStarts at $15/user/monthKustomerTicket managementTicket automationKnowledge baseLive chatStarts at $89/user/monthServiceNowTicketing systemIT service management (ITSM)IT operations management (ITOM)IT business management (ITBM)Contact ServiceNow for pricingLive AgentChat routingFile transferSocial media integrationMultilingual supportStarts at $9/user/monthHelpjuiceKnowledge base managementContent managementCustomizable brandingAdvanced search functionalityStarts at $120/4 users/ monthGladlyLive chatTicket managementKnowledge managementUnified customer viewStarts at $180/user/monthChoose your team’s optimal Zendesk competitorWhen selecting a support platform, it is important to have a clear understanding of the functionalities, features, advantages, disadvantages, and pricing of the available options. The alternatives to Zendesk listed in this blog have different features and pricing plans that might suit your company’s specific needs.By exploring these alternatives to Zendesk, you can find a help desk solution that aligns with your business objectives and ensures excellent customer support. We wish you success in finding the right solution for your needs.Should you have any feedback, ideas, or suggestions for LIKE.TG, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your opinion matters to us, and we’re excited to hear what you have to say!Related articles10 Best Freshdesk Alternatives for Businesses in 2024The Best Customer Service Software for 202415 Best Free Tools for Startups in 202415 Best Small Business Tools Software (2024)

Looking for the best products to promote through affiliate marketing? Affiliate marketing has never been better! The promotions are downright easy, and the commissions are an unbelievably great deal.Can you imagine getting regular commissions for months by simply referring customers to products you promote?Don’t miss out!In this article, we will explain what SaaS affiliate programs are, how they work, and their advantages. We’ll list some of the best SaaS ones with their offers. Let’s jump right in! Why choose SaaS affiliate programs over regular ones?When it comes to promoting SaaS products, it’s all about the amount of commission you will get.Most regular affiliate programs pay an average commission between 5% to 15%. Top SaaS affiliate programs have higher commissions of up to 30%.Besides that, SaaS affiliate marketing is also fast-gaining popularity as one of the best marketing strategies across different industries.Reports by Statista show that the affiliate marketing expenditure in the United States has increased over the years. From $2.5 billion in the year 2012, to $5.4 billion in the year 2017 and was at $7.4 billion by 2021. The expenditure was expected to further increase to about $8.2 billion in 2022.Image source: StatistaThis increase in SaaS affiliate marketing expenditure shows that more businesses are shifting to affiliate market as a strategy to reach their customers.What this means is, by promoting these SaaS products, you are assured of huge commission pay-outs that can either be paid once or monthly.Affiliates get paid as long as the clients they refer maintain their subscriptions. What a way for affiliate marketers to earn huge commissions when they promote SaaS products on their pages!Brief explanation of how the SaaS Affiliate Programs operateThe SaaS Affiliate programs generally work as follows: A SaaS company looking to reach a wider target market pays online marketing advertisers.For instance, they can use affiliates such as bloggers and content creators to promote their SaaS products on their pages on social media platforms.The affiliate marketer will get a unique link they can post to their sites to promote the SaaS products and draw traffic to the SaaS company subscription page.Upon successfully closed sales, the affiliate will get a commission for each client who subscribes.Why join a SaaS affiliate program?Daily, SaaS industries seem to be growing both in number and demand. With this drastic digital revolution, many consumers are now in need of SaaS products.Most companies are embracing new AI-powered technologies due to their advantages. Therefore, given that most SaaS products are AI-based, analysts predict that the SaaS industry is set to grow by an even greater percentage in 2024.Due to the growing demand for SaaS products, this might be the right time to be a marketer for SaaS affiliate programs.What makes SaaS affiliate marketing such a lucrative deal? For starters, they offer great transparency of commissions and pricing plans. Additionally, they have easy steps for affiliates to follow as they market the SaaS products.Qualities of SaaS affiliate marketing programs to considerChoosing the right SaaS affiliate programs to promote is key. Your effort should be well worth it. So, what should you look for in these SaaS affiliate marketing programs?Commission ratesConsider SaaS affiliate programs with high commission rates, preferably greater than 20%. The best ones even go a step further to offer recurring commissions and incremental revenue. This means you’ll use less effort and earn more.Cookie periodGiven that a commission is earned based on purchases made within the cookie period, you should go for those with the longest lifespans.Additional featuresTop SaaS affiliate marketing programs have extra benefits, such as affiliate training resources, dedicated account managers, and affiliate dashboards.Company brand reputationSelect SaaS brands and companies that have a good reputation. This will make it easy for you to get clients to make purchases. Consider reading their online reviews and learning everything about the SaaS brand first.List of the best SaaS affiliate marketing programsHere is a list of the 15 best SaaS affiliate marketing programs in 2024 with high commissions:1. LIKE.TGLIKE.TG is cloud-based help desk software that performs outstanding customer service operations. It has powerful help desk features, such as a ticketing system, knowledge base software, canned responses, CSAT surveys, workflow automation, and SLA management.These features help a support team perform tasks seamlessly, and they automate manual repetitive tasks. With LIKE.TG, there is a 100% guarantee of customer satisfaction and a great customer experience!The following aspects make it one of the best SaaS affiliate programs to promote:Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: 30% for the next 12 months upon client subscriptionCookie Period: 90 daysExtra Features: Dedicated affiliate managerAffiliate Page Link: LIKE.TG Affiliate Program2. Brand24Brand24 is a social media monitoring and analytics tool that allows individuals and businesses to track mentions of their brand, products, or services across various social media platforms, blogs, forums, news sites, and other websites. With Brand24, users can monitor their online reputation, track their competitors, identify influencers, analyze sentiment and engagement, and measure the effectiveness of their social media campaigns.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: up to 30% recurring commission per monthCookie Period: 90 DaysExtra Features: Easy money withdrawal, Partner Panel, updates on product releases, dedicated manager, marketing resources, program tiers, co-marketing opportunitiesAffiliate Page Link: Brand24 Partner Program3. Socialchamp.ioSocial Champ is a well-rounded social media management tool that allows you to create, schedule, and publish your content on ten major social media platforms, including Mastodon and BlueSky.The tool is super easy to use, with a visually-stunning UI and a sleek user dashboard. It also comes with an AI suite—exclusively powered by ChatGPT and DALL—E—that lets you create AI content and generate beautiful images within minutes. Moreover, Social Champ is power-packed with features like a centralized social media calendar, analytics, AI-powered best time to post, a unified inbox, and much more!Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: up to 30% recurring commission per monthCookie Period: 90 DaysExtra Features: Visual integrations, bulk upload, first comments, geo-tagging, recycle feature, content suggestion, and more!Affiliate Page Link: Social Champ Affiliate Program4. CanvaNeed a graphic designing tool that is very user-friendly? Canva has got you covered.It has customizable templates that are readily available, ranging from logos, photos, documents, and many more. It has one of the best bounties in the SaaS Affiliate Programs.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: $36 per new Canva Pro plan subscriberCookie Period: 30 DaysExtra Features: Support resources like how-to guides, community tips, and news to help with promotions.Affiliate Page Link: Canva Affiliate Marketing Program5. Triple WhaleTriple Whale is a top-tier AI data platform for Shopify e-commerce businesses. With this powerful data insight tool, businesses can easily manage their marketing reports and analyze data.It helps them get effective real-time insights on different performance metrics, leading them to make informed decisions.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: Up to 25% recurring commission for 6 monthsCookie Period: 90 daysExtra features: Earn incremental revenue, pays affiliates for any completed demos to referral and uses PartnerStack to manage the affiliate programAffiliate Page Link: Triple Whale AffiliateIt has different commission plans, including:Blue tier (0-15 referrals): $50 for each completed demo + 15% recurring revenue for 6 months Silver tier (16-50 referrals): $100 for each completed demo + 20% revenue for 6 months Gold tier (51+ referrals): $100 for each completed demo + 25% revenue for 6 months6. BoldSignBoldSignis an enterprise-grade electronic signature software and API. You can easily collect legally binding eSignatures online from our app or yours. The BoldSign APIs are blazing fast and let you embed the entire eSignature process into your application seamlessly. It has a rich feature set that includes templates, branding, webhooks, team management, multi-tenancy, and more.The following are the key aspects that help you to promote the BoldSign SaaS affiliate programs:Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: 30% for the next 12 months upon client subscriptionCookie Period: 90 daysExtra Features:Dedicated affiliate managerAffiliate Page Link:BoldSign Affiliate Program7. ShopifyFor anyone looking to start an e-commerce store that has amazing hosting and marketing tools all in one SaaS product, Shopify has you covered!Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: Starting from $29 per month and higher, based on planCookie Period: 30 daysExtra Features: Affiliate support resourcesAffiliate Page Link: Shopify Affiliate Program8. Microsoft Office 365Microsoft Office 365 products have been migrated to SaaS products, with most features automated for better functionality. This affiliate program offers great commissions. The following affiliate marketing advantages are reasons to choose the Microsoft Office 365 affiliate program.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: Up to $10 per new subscriptionCookie Period: 14 daysExtra features: Earn incremental revenueAffiliate Page Link: Microsoft 365 Affiliate Program9. SemRushThis is a powerful digital marketing tool used to improve online visibility and discover different marketing insights. With SemRush, customers perform search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing, content marketing, and pay-per-click advertising.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: $10 for a free trial; $0.01 upon registration; $200 on first purchaseCookie Period: 120 daysAffiliate Page Link: SemRush Affiliate Program10. PrivyPrivy is a SaaS product designed for email marketing. It provides a platform for online businesses to advertise their products and acquire new clients. It offers powerful features such as follow-up emails, product recommendation, etc. Privy sends targeted messages to potential clients with offers they can’t resist.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission:10% recurringCookie duration:90 daysExtra features: Dedicated account managerAffiliate Page Link: Privy Affiliate Program11. AWeberAWeber is one of the oldest, most popular, most powerful, yet user-friendly tools for email marketing. Email automation has never been simpler than with AWeber! It has great features such as drag-and-drop, customizable templates, integration with third-party apps, tagging, reporting, and email designers.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission:30% recurring payments per monthCookie duration:365 daysExtra features: Affiliate training resources; toolkit to track referral updatesAffiliate Page Link: Aweber Referral Program12. UnbounceUnbounce is a smart and powerful AI-powered tool that helps marketers quickly create landing pages as well as obtain content copies for campaigns. It has amazing features that make it worth checking out.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: 20% recurring commissionCookie period: 90 daysExtra features: Affiliate training resources, promotional assets, dedicated partner coach, and partner templatesAffiliate Page Link:Unbounce Partner Program13. LifeLockThis is one of the best tools for identity theft protection during the tax period and other seasons as well. With LifeLock, businesses are guaranteed the safety of their finances as well as their reputation.It encrypts their details and keeps them safe from cyber insecurity. It scans, alerts, and fixes identity theft-related issues.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: $60.00 per saleCookie Period: 30 daysExtra features: Banner rotators, PDF banners, smart linksAffiliate Page Link: LifeLock Affiliate Program14. MoosendMoosend’s affiliate program can benefit both you and your audience. You can introduce your audience to a tool that will help them cut back on cost while increasing engagement and conversion, while you can earn a passive income through lifetime commission.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: The Moosend Affiliate program offers a tiered commission structure.Bronze Group (0-5 paid accounts) with 30% recurring commissionSilver Group (6-10 paid accounts) with 33% recurring commissionGold Group (11-25 paid accounts) with 35% recurring commissionPlatinum Group (26-35 paid accounts) with 37% recurring commissionDiamond Group (36 or more accounts) with 40% recurring commissionsCookie Period: 90 DaysPayout Method: PayPal, Stripe Wire TransferExtra Features:First-touch attribution modelReal-time reporting and analytics$5 minimum thresholdPromotional resources are all gathered in one place: Affiliate Resource CenterAffiliate Page Link: Moosend Affiliate Program15. Reply.ioReply is an AI-powered platform for sales engagement. It automates multichannel outreach in the sales process to generate more new leads.In addition, it helps businesses get new clients and increase their revenues.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: Up to 30% recurring commissionsCookie Period: 30 daysExtra features: Strong affiliate tracking; open and simple rulesAffiliate Page Link: Reply.io Affiliate Program16. OmnisendOmnisend is a platform that helps businesses with e-commerce marketing through email, SMS, and automation features.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: 20% recurring commissionCookie Period: 90 DaysExtra features: Dedicated account manager; affiliate support resources like ads and bannersAffiliate Page Link: Omnisend Affiliate Program17. ConvertKitConvertKit is a popular marketing hub for content creators with amazing features such as broadcasting emails and creating landing pages. It has great affiliate packages for its promoters.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: 30% recurring commissionCookie Period: 90 daysExtra Features: Dedicated account managerAffiliate Page Link: ConvertKit Affiliate Program18. TimeneyeTimeneyeis a time tracking and productivity software that combines time tracking, light project management features, and visual productivity reporting. It integrates smoothly with other software, such as the Microsoft Suite (Microsoft Planner, Microsoft Teams, Outlook Calendar, Azure DevOps and others), and helps individuals and teams monitor time allocation across different projects, resources, and tasks.Affiliate Program DetailsCommission: 20% lifetime recurring commissionCookie Period: 90 DaysExtra Features: personalized dashboard to track affiliate earnings, media kit to use in blogs and promotions, additional discount for users who sign up through the affiliate link.Affiliate Page Link: Timeneye Affiliate ProgramConclusionWith SaaS products trending, there are many top SaaS affiliate programs to choose from.It’s important to select the program that is most suitable for your target audience, and provide them with the best features.Earn huge commissions from simply promoting these best SaaS affiliate programs! Contact the LIKE.TG support team for any inquiries regarding our SaaS affiliate programs.Related articlesBest Black Friday SaaS Deals in 2023SaaS Affiliate Programs: Benefits and Best Practices for Affiliates

After building an amazing product, you now need to let potential customers know it exists and start attracting them. To acquire customers, you start working on marketing campaigns, hoping to scale quickly. However, have you considered customer acquisition costs?Before you ramp up your marketing budget, you need to understand the hidden costs involved and how to optimize your approach. In this article, we’ll explore low-cost alternatives to traditional, expensive marketing you can leverage to keep your customer acquisition costs under control. What is customer acquisition cost?Customer acquisition cost (CAC) refers to the total amount of money a company spends to gain new customers. CAC includes different expenditures, including marketing initiatives, sales efforts, and customer service-related costs.It essentially tells a company how much it spends to turn one person who starts out unfamiliar with their brand into a customer.How to calculate customer acquisition costTo figure out how much it costs you to gain a new customer, you’ll need to do a little math:Calculate your customer lifetime value: First, determine how much revenue you generate from an average customer over their lifetime.Track your marketing expenses: Add up how much you spend (including pay-per-click ads, social media marketing, content creation, and email) on marketing and advertising in a given time period, like a month or quarter.Divide marketing expenses by new customers: Determine how many new customers you gained in that time period and then divide your total marketing expenses by the number of new customers.Total acquisition cost includes all the expenses related to acquiring new customers, like:Marketing costsSales costs (salaries, commissions, etc.)Promotional offers and discountsWhat is a good customer acquisition cost?A good customer acquisition cost can vary widely based on industry, business model, and specific circumstances.Ideally, your CAC should be significantly lower than your customer lifetime value (CLV). Aim for a CLV-to-CAC ratio of 3:1, or preferably better.This ensures your customer acquisition efforts ultimately generate profit. Otherwise, you’ll lose money on every new customer.An example of a good customer acquisition costA clothing e-commerce store spends $12,000 on Facebook ads and $3,000 on influencer partnerships. They acquire 500 new customers who make an average first-year purchase of $100 each.CAC:($12,000 + $3,000)/500= $30/customerThis relatively low customer acquisition cost compared to average first-year purchase suggests good customer acquisition strategy and potential profitability.Customer acquisition cost vs customer lifetime valueCustomer acquisition cost (CAC) and customer lifetime value (CLV) are two key metrics for evaluating the efficiency and sustainability of a business’s customer acquisition and retention strategies.The following table breaks down each metric and how they relate to each other.Customer acquisition cost (CAC)Customer lifetime value (CLV)CAC is the average cost incurred by a business to acquire a new customer. It includes expenses related to marketing and sales efforts.CLV is the total amount a business expects a customer to spend with them in their entire relationship with the company.The CAC lets businesses understand how much they are investing to acquire each new customer. It helps in assessing the efficiency of marketing and sales strategies.The CLV assesses the long-term value of a customer. It helps businesses understand the maximum amount they can invest in customer acquisition and retain profitably.CAC = Total acquisition cost/new customersCLV= Averagepurchasevalue × purchasefrequency × customerlifespanRelationship between CAC and CLVCustomer acquisition cost and customer lifetime value are interrelated metrics that provide insight into the efficiency of customer acquisition.If CAC is higher than CLV, it may indicate that the business is spending too much to acquire customers relative to the revenue those customers generate. This situation is unsustainable in the long run.Customer acquisition costs across different industriesCustomer acquisition cost can vary significantly in different industries due to variations in:Business modelsTarget audiencesCompetitive landscapesWhile it’s challenging to provide specific customer acquisition figures for each industry, we can discuss general trends and considerations:E-commerceCAC in e-commerce can vary based on the type of products sold, target audience, and the competitiveness of the market.Customer acquisition cost in e-commerce can range from a few dollars to $50 or more per customer.Software as a service (SaaS)SaaS companies often have higher customer acquisition cost values, as acquiring customers for subscription-based services may require significant upfront investment.CAC for SaaS companies can range from one to several hundred dollars per customer.Finance and bankingIn the finance industry, particularly for banks and financial institutions, customer acquisition costs tends to be relatively high due to the investment in reputation-building and the competitive nature of the industry.CAC can range from $20 to hundreds per customer for complex financial services.HealthcareHealthcare providers and services may have varying customer acquisition cost values based on the specific services offered. CAC can range from $15 to a few hundreds of dollars per new patient acquisition.TelecommunicationsCAC in the telecommunications industry can be the cost of acquiring new subscribers for mobile plans or internet services. CAC values can range from $150 to several hundred per subscriber.Transportation and hospitalityCAC in the travel industry depends on the type of service, such as hotels, airlines, or travel agencies. CAC can range from $20 to hundreds per customer, influenced by the competition and location.Retail CAC in traditional retail varies based on the type of products, customer loyalty programs, and the overall marketing strategy. Its range is usually in the low end, under a hundred per customer for stores with a larger variety of goods.EducationIn private education, CAC depends on whether it’s a traditional educational institution or an online education platform. CAC can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per student.Real estateCustomer acquisition cost in real estate is involves marketing efforts to attract homebuyers or tenants. CAC can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per customer.Technology and hardwareFor businesses selling technology products or hardware, customer acquisition cost can vary based on the nature of the products. It can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per customer.Customer acquisition cost examplesCustomer Acquisition Cost (CAC) varies across industries and business models. Thus, there are several ways different companies gain new customers. Here are various examples of expenses that contribute to CAC:Marketing costsThese are costs businesses allocate for online and offline advertisements to capture the attention of potential customers:Market researchSocial media adsPay-per-clickTV commercialsRadio adsPrint mediaBillboardsTrade shows and networking eventsEmail outreachSEO optimization expensesOther costs associated with producing marketing materialsAnalytics toolsCustomer feedback collection methodsEmployee expensesThese are costs for the personnel who plan and execute the previously listed marketing activities and conduct one-on-one meetings with the potential customers drawn in by it:SalariesEmployee recruitment and training expenses.Commissions and bonuses for the sales, PR agencies, and technical teams.Promotional costsThese are expenses used by companies to attract prospects to make their purchases:DiscountsCouponsFree trialsLoyalty programsPremium modulesInfluencers and affiliate partnershipsFactors affecting customer acquisition costsThe following are factors that influence the customer acquisition cost for a business.Marketing and advertising channelsHow you choose to reach your target audience plays a big role in costs. Things like social media ads, influencer sponsorships, and Google Ads can get pricey fast.Do research to determine which channels your ideal customers actually use so you’re not wasting money. And remember, a multichannel approach is usually most effective.The target audienceAcquiring customers in highly competitive or niche markets may require different strategies and budgets. Pinpoint your target audience based on demographics, interests, behaviors, and more.The wider the net you cast, the more you’ll end up paying. The more precisely you can target who sees your ads or content, the lower your costs will be.Product quality and pricingA high-quality, unique product with clear value proposition requires less convincing, attracting customers organically and lowering customer acquisition costs.Additionally, offering competitive pricing aligned with your value proposition can make your product more attractive and reduce the need for heavy discounts or promotions, which can inflate customer acquisition cost.Stiff business competitionThe level of competition in the industry can affect CAC. In highly competitive markets, businesses may need to invest more in marketing to stand out and acquire customers.Geographical factorsTargeting customers in different geographical regions may have different acquisition costs. Factors like shipping costs, market maturity, and cultural considerations can play a role.Dynamic market trendsSeasonal variations in demand can influence CAC. Businesses experiencing peak seasons may need to adjust their marketing budgets and strategies accordingly.Ways to lower your customer acquisition costsLowering your customer acquisition costs is key to scaling your business. Here are a few ways to gain new customers without overspending.Set a clear customer acquisition targetDetermine how much you can afford to spend to gain a new customer while still remaining profitable. Allocate your marketing budget accordingly, dropping any channels that exceed your target cost.Regularly analyze and optimize your online sitesContinuously analyze how people are finding your business on your websites and what interested them enough to convert them into new customers.What’s more, look for pain points in the customer journey and make changes to improve their navigation experiences.Test different options to see what works. With regular optimization, you’ll gain new customers at a lower cost over time.Optimize your marketing strategiesOptimizing your marketing tactics means making sure every dollar spent acquiring new customers is utilized as effectively as possible. Some tips to keep in mind:Focus on spending on high-value marketing channels: Spend the bulk of your budget on the marketing channels that drive the most valuable customers.Things like social media ads, search engine marketing, and content creation tend to provide the biggest bang for your buck. Don’t waste money on outdated tactics like newspaper ads or billboards.Track your marketing metrics: The only way to know what’s working is to track metrics for each marketing channel, like cost per lead, cost per customer, and customer lifetime value.Compare the numbers to see where you’re getting the best results and make adjustments as needed.Offer promotions and discountsRun special offers like coupons, discounts, free trials, and promotions to incentivize new customers.People love deals and will sign up to save money. Just be sure to track the success of each campaign to determine the most effective options for the future.Build referral programsTap into the power of word-of-mouth marketing. Create referral programs that reward both new and existing customers for sharing your business.Referral customers have a high lifetime value, so the small investment will pay off.Implementing referral programs can significantly reduce CAC.According to Stryde, referred customers have ahigher customer lifetime valueand are37% more likely to convert.Following these steps will help ensure you’re making the most of your marketing resources and gaining new customers without wasting money.Importance of understanding customer acquisition costCAC is a crucial metric for businesses as it provides insights into the effectiveness and efficiency of their marketing and sales efforts. Thus, understanding CAC is crucial for businesses across various industries. Here are key reasons why understanding and managing CAC is crucial:Enables businesses to optimize their marketing strategiesBusinesses can only evaluate the effectiveness of different marketing channels and strategies if they know how many customers they should be acquiring per dollar spent.Helps in evaluating return on investment (ROI)The CAC provides insights into the return a business is getting from its customer acquisition efforts.Marketing leads need to compare the CAC with the lifetime value of a customer to assess the overall profitability of acquiring customers through specific channels.Allows informed budgeting decisionsKnowing the cost of acquiring customers allows businesses to create informed budgeting plans. This helps businesses set realistic targets and forecast future expenses based on expected customer acquisition rates, thus avoiding wastage of marketing expenditure.Lower your customer acquisition costs to ensure business successUnderstanding and optimizing customer acquisition cost is essential for business success and long-term profitability. Meeting the demands of clients in a timely and efficient manner is one of the best ways to keep the clients you manage to acquire.Some of those satisfied clients will then recommend your business to others, which is the cheapest way to acquire even more clients.Give LIKE.TG a try if you want to improve your customer acquisition cost by creating satisfied customers through better customer service. LIKE.TG offers a free trial and a 30-minute live demo so you can see how it would transform your support system.For any clarifications or help, don’t hesitate to contact LIKE.TG support.We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your insights, questions, ideas, or even personal experiences in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps us shape the future of our content to be even more helpful and engaging.Related articles7 Important Help Desk Metrics and Best Practices12 Crucial Customer Experience Metrics for Your Support Team | LIKE.TG11 Effective Customer Engagement Strategies for Long-Term Business Success

Would you rather solve your minor issues independently or wait for customer service representatives to solve them for you?Businesses have made it easier for you to solve your support issues independently by developing customer self-service portals, which provide instant access to solutions.According to a study conducted by Higher Logic, 77% of respondents have a positive perception of businesses that provide self-service options for customers needing assistance.Furthermore, that same study found that 79% of respondents expect organizations to provide self-service support tools, enabling customers to find answers without contacting customer support directly.For customer-centric businesses, providing a well-designed customer self-service portal is essential.This blog explores the realm of customer self-service portals, which not only offer users flexibility, but also streamline customer interactions and enhance customer satisfaction. What is a self-service portal?A self-service portal is an online platform or application that enables users to independently access information relevant to their problems without needing direct assistance from customer support representatives.The main aim is to offer users a convenient and user-friendly interface that enhances their experience by granting them greater control and independence in their interactions with a specific service or organization.In addition to allowing users to efficiently resolve their issues, significant time savings is enjoyed by both users and service providers.Examples ofcustomer self-service portalsBelow are the key examples of the customer self-service portals for business to look into:Knowledge baseThis is a centralized database that contains comprehensive information about products and their use. It can be used by support teams, customers, or both.High-end knowledge base software supports multiple languages, allowing users to translate articles into their preferred language for better understanding.Different types of self-service resources you should include in your knowledge base are:Database documentsUser manualsHow-to videosTroubleshooting guidesCustomer portalA customer portal in the context of a customer self-service portal is an online hub where customers can independently manage their interactions with a business.It’s one place for customers to find information, update account details, and perform various tasks without direct assistance.The portal usually includes self-help resources, transaction history, and the ability to submit and track support requests.Customizing the customer self-service portal’s appearance and features to meet user needs improves the overall user experience and friendliness.Community forumThis is a platform where customers can discuss their experiences and work together to resolve issues.Users can post their queries on community forums and receive responses from other customers and company experts.In addition to being helpful, this type of customer self-service portal is highly effective in fostering a sense of community and brand loyalty.Frequently asked questionsA frequently asked questions (FAQ) page in a customer self-service portal is a dedicated section that provides a list of concise answers to common queries.Organizing information in an FAQ empowers customers to find solutions independently, reducing the need for direct support.An FAQ page typically covers a wide range of topics, not just products and their use.It usually includes information about account management, licensing, and any other relevant information that users often seek clarification about.Some frequently asked questions include:How do I get started with your product?How do I reset a forgotten password?“What is…” questions.“How to create…” questions.How to createa customer self-service portalHere is a general overview of how to make a customer self-service portal effective and user-friendly:Carry out a comprehensive study of client needsThis entails conducting a thorough analysis of customer needs, preferences, and pain points to identify the specific functionalities and features that should be incorporated into the portal.Set up a search bar at the forefrontIt is essential to have a search option on every page of your portal so that customers do not have to navigate back to the home page to look for information.Additionally, the search bar should always be visible to customers; they shouldn’t have to go looking for it.This will allow your consumers to browse through your website or knowledge base easily.A search bar is the most effective tool for finding answers.Link related articlesLinking related articles in a self-service customer portal enables customers to easily find the articles they’re looking for when theymay not be sure how to describe or search for the problem.By connecting related articles and documentation, customers can easily narrow down the topics they originally intended to look into, leading to a faster issue resolution.Categorize resourcesOrganize your self-service portal into categories. This systematic arrangement will make it easy for customers to find content, saving them time.If your self-software supports it, you can also tag resources to organize them in finer detail.Additionally, categorizing your resources contributes to the overall organization of your website and prevents users from feeling overwhelmed by the abundance of information.Allow ticket submission within the portalBy incorporating a ticketing system into the self-service platform, companies allow their customers to submit support tickets to support agents.This allows customers to initiate problem resolution if they were unable to figure out their issue through the portal’s resources or just didn’t have time to search.This integration not only enhances the customer experience, but also gives support teams an opportunity to increase their first-contact resolution rate.Make your customer self-service platform friendly to all devicesWhen creating a self-help portal, ensure it functions properly on devices of all sizes and is accessible to users with different abilities.Depending on the product, a mobile-first strategy for the self-service portal may be ideal.If most customers use the product on their mobile devices, making self service portal easily accessible on mobile is essential because it eliminates the need for context switching.Track key performance indicatorsMonitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) enables the assessment of the overall effectiveness of your customer self-service portal.You gain valuable insight into various aspects such as portal usage and customer satisfaction.The following are some KPIs you can track to evaluate your self-service portal:Ticket volumeSelf-service success ratePage views and durationUpdate your self-service platform regularlyIt is crucial to maintain an up-to-date platform as products and services change.Businesses that provide current, accessible, and understandable information on product features and troubleshooting ensure their portal remains an invaluable resource for customers.7 Great customer self-service portal solutionsBusinesses must choose customer self-service portal software with features that best serve their customers.Here are some of the best customer self-service solutions available today:LIKE.TGLIKE.TG is comprehensive help desk software that simplifies customer service with its large collection of features.It includes automation features and powerful customization options, and it is a budget-friendly option for businesses.The primary goals of LIKE.TG are to help businesses manage support requests, facilitate collaboration between support agents and customers, and automate repetitive tasks, all of which improve the customer experience.Users can create, assign, and track support tickets to provide customers timely and effective solutions.With LIKE.TG’s built-in knowledge base software you can organize articles on similar topics by creating various levels of categories and subcategories, or just reorder them using a simple drag-and-drop interface.The Markdown editor emphasizes generating and coding documents; alternatively, the WYSIWYG editor allows authors who are more comfortable with Word-style work efficiently.You can use both editors to add links, images, videos, code blocks, and other content to articles.LIKE.TG’s intuitive interface and robust functionality enable businesses to improve their customers’ satisfaction and enhance customer service operations.Key featuresRobust ticketing software to help handle customer queries and issues efficiently.Knowledge base software for managing and sharing information with your team, equipped with a strong search system to help users find solutions quickly.Efficient task management components to achieve your support productivity goals.AI-enhanced assistance to transform your customer interactions.Multilingual support to assist users in translating articles into the languages they know best.Automation tools that route tickets reliably and efficiently.Extensive customization options to tailor your help desk to fit your business’s unique requirements.Customer satisfaction surveys to gather valuable insights on how you can improve your service to better meet your customers’ needs.Top-notch mobile application to bring your help desk anywhere your customers are.Smooth integration that facilitates seamless incorporation of other tools and software your customers use.Customer portal that is user-friendly and helps customers follow up on their questions.Top-notchsecurity and compliance that ensure strong protection and safeguarding of sensitive customer data.Insightful reports and analytics that provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.PricingStarter: $10 per agent/monthGrowth: $20 per agent/monthEnterprise: $40 per agent/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysZendeskZendesk offers fast, AI-powered chatbots and user-friendly help center software that provide businesses with the necessary tools to get their customers the help they need.The adaptable self-service software is easy to keep consistent with your brand, and the analytics capabilities provide you with comprehensive data to improve your clients’ experiences.Key featuresDashboardsSearch systemIntegrationAutomationTicketing systemPricingSuite Team: $55 per agent/monthSuite Growth: $89 per agent/monthSuite Professional: $115 per agent/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysDocument360Document360 is software that allows you to create user manuals, product documentation, FAQ pages, and knowledge bases.It has a cutting-edge editor, a category manager, and a user-friendly search feature. You can even access previous versions of articles and undo modifications as needed.Key featuresRobust searchTicket deflection systemKnowledge baseKnowledge managementPricingStandard: $149 per project/monthProfessional: $299 per project/monthBusiness: $399 per project/monthEnterprise: $599 per project/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysHelp ScoutHelp Scout is a customer support platform that includes self-service features. Its Docs products allows organizations to create a knowledge base for rapidly accessible answers, and its Beacon product helps guide users to the information they need.Key featuresKnowledge baseKnowledge managementSearch featurePricingStandard: $20 per user/monthPlus: $40 per user/monthPro: $65 per user/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysGorgiasGorgias is an e-commerce help desk platform that prioritizes automation to promptly address client concerns, providing automatic answers to frequently asked questions such as order status and refunds.Key features AI-enhanced communicationKnowledge baseApp integrationSearch systemPricingBasic: $50 per monthPro: $300 per monthAdvanced: $750 per monthFree trial duration: 7 daysHubSpotHubSpot Service Hub offers versatile support features like live chat, a customer portal, and ticketing.The knowledge base feature lets you store answers to frequently asked questions, and users can easily find solutions to their problems with an optimized search feature.Service Hub also facilitates teamwork with team management tools and video chat capabilities.Key featuresAI-powered enhancementsKnowledge baseSearch featurePricingStarter: $18 per monthProfessional: $450 per monthEnterprise: $1,200 per monthFree trial duration: 14 daysFreshdeskFreshdesk is praised for its intuitive interface and offers a robust self service portal with knowledge base management and automation features.Key features SearchDashboardsCustomizationCustomer portalPricingGrowth: $15 per agent/monthPro: $49 per agent/monthEnterprise:$79/user/monthFree trial : 14 daysBenefits ofa self-service portalWhat do businesses and customers stand to gain from self-service portal software? In this section, we will discuss some of its advantages.Enhances agent productivityWith a self-service portal, customers tend to solve their problems independently, allowing support agents to spend their time on complex issues instead.As a result, the support team’s productivity and efficiency significantly increase.Improves customer satisfactionProviding customers with a self-service portal can boost their satisfaction and prevent negative experiences.It gives them a level of autonomy that isn’t possible when support is restricted to only being available from support agents.Strengthens brand reputationSelf-service customer portals can help businesses make a good impression to potential customers and strengthen the brand’s reputation.Empowering customers to solve their own problems shows that the business values its customers’ time.Offers 24/7 support to customersSmall companies that are still growing often face the challenge of being able to staff enough support agents to provide support 24/7 in order to accommodate customers worldwide.This can cause stress for clients who require immediate assistance.However, by implementing a customer self-service portal, customers can receive assistance around the clock.They can quickly find answers to their questions by consulting knowledge-base articles or participating in forum discussions.Helps educate customersSelf-service portals offer comprehensive information that when providing solutions to frequently asked questions. Clear solutions are often communicated with the use of:Step-by-step instructionsHow-to videosGuides with screenshots, diagrams, and photosIncreases website trafficBy implementing search engine optimization strategies in the development of your knowledge base, customers can find the information they need more easily.This has the added benefit of making your site appear higher in search results, driving more traffic to your webpages and increasing sales leads.Unlock the potential of customer self-serviceTo provide your customers with the best possible support, it’s essential to give them the ability to resolve issues independently.A customer self-service portal is an effective solution that ensures customers can receive assistance 24/7.Not only does a self-service element save your business time and resources, but it also improves customer engagement and loyalty.To see how LIKE.TG can help your business create a self-service customer portal for faster issue resolution without bogging down your support team, book a live demo or start a free trial. If you have any questions about the product and its capabilities, get in touch with the LIKE.TG support team.What other insights would you like to know about with customer self-service portals? Leave your thoughts and recommendations in the comment section below.

As the volume of customer inquiries escalates, it becomes essential for customer service teams to have the proper instruments at their disposal to assist their clientele effectively.HappyFox is a popular help desk solution, yet it isn’t the only option available or a one-size-fits-all answer for every company. The fact that you’re exploring.HappyFox alternatives indicates you’re searching for an option that better suits your particular needs, one that resonates more with the distinct objectives of your business.However, before settling on a single solution, it is advisable for companies to thoroughly evaluate the range of help desk software solutions available.In an effort to assist you, we have compiled a selection of potential alternatives to HappyFox that may align with your business requirements.These options range in complexity, adaptability, and affordability. Whatever your help desk requirements may be, you’re likely to find a suitable solution in this collection. Why should you consider HappyFox alternatives?While HappyFox is a popular customer support and help desk solution, like any software, it may have certain drawbacks.It’s important to consider these limitations when evaluating whether HappyFox is the right fit for your business.Here are some potential drawbacks:Complex setup: Some users have found the initial setup process to be complex, particularly for users who may not be familiar with advanced features.Learning curve: The platform may have a steep learning curve, especially for new users. Training may be required to fully utilize all features and functionalities.Limited customization: Users may find certain customization options to be limited compared to other solutions. This can impact the ability to tailor the platform to specific business needs.Limited reporting and analytics: HappyFox’s reporting capabilities may be limited for some businesses. This could make it difficult to track key metrics and measure the efficiency of your customer support efforts.Integration challenges: HappyFox offers integrations with a number of third-party tools, but it may not integrate with all of the tools that your business uses.These drawbacks are based on user feedback and reviews, and your individual experience might vary depending on your specific needs and preferences.It’s always advisable to compare HappyFox to other options before making a decision.Top HappyFox alternatives for 2024For those currently using HappyFox and thinking of a change, or for those exploring their options in support software, the following nine HappyFox competitors should serve as an excellent reference point.1. LIKE.TGLIKE.TG is comprehensive, cloud-based help desk software designed to enhance and streamline the customer experience.LIKE.TG is one of the best Happyfox alternatives. It caters to businesses of all sizes, from startupsand small businesses to large enterprises, and is known for its user-friendly interface and adaptability.Our platform stands out for its efficient ticket management system, which smartly assigns support tickets to specific agents based on the nature of the tasks and current workloads.It provides tools for collaborative ticket handling and employs artificial intelligence to help your support team deliver an exceptional customer experience.Key featuresLIKE.TG comes equipped with features such as:AI Copilot for customer supportA robust ticketing systemKnowledge base softwareEffective help desk automationExtensive customization optionsMobile help desk applicationCustomer satisfaction surveysMultilingual help desk supportMany integrationsInsightfulreports and analyticsUser-friendlycustomer portalTask management toolsTop-notchsecurityAdvantages of using LIKE.TGFree migration: LIKE.TG provides a no-cost transition for users switching from different customer service platforms.Advanced customization and multibranding: LIKE.TG supports vast customization and multibranding options.Seamless integration capabilities: Users can connect LIKE.TG with their preferred tools and applications, streamlining their workflow and elevating overall productivity.Mobile help desk application: LIKE.TG provides a modern and user-friendly mobile app, enabling customer service management from any location.Advanced automation features: With a suite of automation features, LIKE.TG provides a variety of ways to automatically direct tickets, minimize repetitive tasks, cut down on manual work, and enhance the efficiency of support agents.Email-to-ticket conversion: LIKE.TG features an automated email ticketing system that turns incoming customer emails into manageable tickets for support staff.User-friendly design: LIKE.TG boasts an easy-to-navigate user interface designed for optimal ease of use for both customer service representatives and clients.Unlimited agent pricing: LIKE.TG’s pricing model allows for an unlimited number of agents without additional per-agent fees, reducing overhead costs for businesses. This package lets them expand their customer support team without extra financial limitations from licensing.To learn more about LIKE.TG features, watch this video.PricingLIKE.TG provides two different pricing options. The following are based on annually paid plans.Agent-Based plans:Scale: $25 for 3 agents/monthGrowth: $50 for 3 agents/monthEnterprise: $75 for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential: $799 per monthPro: $1499 per monthBusiness: Contact usFeel free to get in touch with the LIKE.TG support team if you need assistance. To try out LIKE.TG for yourself, sign up for a 15-day trial or schedule a live demo.Unlimited AgentsHow many agents do you have? Pro$1499Flat Fee / Month Billed AnnuallyTry for freeUnlimited Agents VS Growth $1999 Per MonthBilled AnnuallyUnlimited Agents2. Help ScoutHelp Scout is a popular customer support tool with a focus on simplicity and customer-centric features.Key featuresShared inboxKnowledge baseAutomationReports and analyticsIntegrationsPricingMonthly plans start at $20/user3. ZendeskZendesk is a cloud-based customer support platform that streamlines communication across various channels for an organized and customized experience.This is one of the HappyFox competitors that provides self-help options, employs AI-driven chatbots, and integrating with many widely used applications.Key featuresTicketing systemReporting toolsIntegrationDashboardsHelp desk automationPricingMonthly plans start at $19/user4. Salesforce Service CloudThe Salesforce Service Cloud is a customer support platform offered by Salesforce, one of the leading customer relationship management (CRM) software providers.This alternative to HappyFox is designed for large enterprises and organizations in need of a comprehensive system to handle customer service, sales, and marketing tasks.Key featuresAutomationKnowledge base softwareTicketing systemReporting toolsPricingMonthly plans start at $25/user5. Zoho DeskZoho Desk is help desk software offered by the Zoho Corporation. It is designed to help businesses manage and streamline customer support operations.This HappyFox alternative centralizes management of customer inquiries and conversations from emails, websites, live chats, phones, and social platforms into one unified interface.Key featuresTicket managementAutomationReports and analyticsTicket collaborationTicket routingPricingMonthly plans start at $18/user6. LiveAgentLiveAgent is a comprehensive customer service and live chat software package that provides businesses with tools to manage customer interactions.This alternative to HappyFox streamlines customer interactions by consolidating communications from various platforms into a single, unified dashboard.Key featuresTicket routingKnowledge baseAutomationLive chatCommunity forumPricingMonthly plans start at $15/user7. FreshdeskFreshdesk is a customer support platform designed to help companies deliver good customer experience.This HappyFox alternative enhances companies’ ability to handle inquiries swiftly and tailor interactions through collaborative tools.Key featuresOmnichannel ticketingTicket routingReporting toolsAutomationKnowledge base softwarePricingMonthly plans start at $15/user8. FrontFront is a collaborative inbox and communication platform designed to streamline team collaboration on email and other communication channels.This shared inbox application enables team members to reply using their individual email addresses.Additionally, this HappyFox alternative provides collaborative features, such as the ability to leave internal comments and private notes.Key featuresShared inboxAutomationReports and analyticsLive chatTeam collaboration toolsPricingMonthly plans start at $19/user9. KayakoKayako is a customer support platform that consolidates customer interactions from various channels.This HappyFox alternative provides features aimed at minimizing friction and optimizing support operations.Key featuresTicketing systemLive chatKnowledge base softwareIntegrationsReporting and analytics toolsPricingMonthly plans start at $15/userHappyFox alternatives comparison tableNameFeaturesPricing planLIKE.TGRobust ticketing systemKnowledge base softwareEffective help desk automationsAI assist toolsExtensive customization optionsMobile help desk applicationAdvanced reports and analyticsVast integrationsTop-notch securityUser-friendly customer portalStarts at $10 for 10 agents/monthHelp ScoutShared inboxKnowledge base softwareAutomationReports and analyticsIntegrationsStarts at $20/month/userZendeskTicketing systemReporting toolsIntegrationDashboardsHelp desk automationStarts at $19/month/userSalesforce Service CloudAutomationKnowledge base softwareTicketing systemReporting toolsStarts at $25/month/userZoho DeskTicket managementAutomationReports and analyticsTicket collaborationTicket routingStarts at $18/month/userLiveAgentTicket routingKnowledge base softwareAutomationLive chatCommunity forumStarts at $15/month/userFreshdeskOmnichannel ticketingTicket routingReporting toolsAutomationKnowledge base softwareStarts at $15/month/userFrontShared inboxAutomationReports and analyticsLive chatTeam collaborationStarts at $19/month/userKayakoTicketing systemLive chatKnowledge base softwareIntegrationsReporting and analyticsStarts at $15/month/userConsiderations for selecting the right HappyFox alternativeSelecting the right alternative to HappyFox to align with your business goals requires several considerations.Features and functionalityAssess the features offered by HappyFox competitors. Ensure they provide the necessary functionalities to meet your specific requirements, such as ticketing, automation, knowledge base, and reporting tools.Also consider if you need advanced features like self-service portals, omnichannel support, or AI-powered solutions.Customization Do the platforms allow for branding and customization to match your company’s style and workflow? A solution that doesn’t can require a lot of workarounds.Scalability Evaluate the scalability of the HappyFox alternatives. Consider whether the solutions can grow with your business and handle increasing volumes of support requests and users.Cost and pricing modelEvaluate the overall cost of HappyFox competitors, including subscription fees, implementation costs, and any potential hidden fees.Understand the pricing model and choose a solution that fits within your budget.Take advantage of free trials or demos to test the platforms and ensure they meet your needs before committing.Communication channels supportedDo the platforms offer multiple channels of support for quick assistance when needed?Assess the level of customer support offered. Look for a solution with a comprehensive customer service system, including tutorials, documentation, and a dedicated customer support team.If they understand the importance of timely, efficient support for their own customers, you can be more comfortable knowing they understand its importance to you for your customers.User interface and usabilityThe user interface of the solution you choose should be intuitive and user-friendly, allowing for quick adoption by your support team.Consider the learning curve and overall user experience.Choose a platform that’s intuitive and easy to navigate for both agents and customers.Integration capabilitiesEnsure the platforms you look at can seamlessly integrate with your existing tools, applications, and third-party services to create a cohesive workflow.Security and complianceMake sure the solution you choose prioritizes security features and compliance with data protection regulations.Ensure the HappyFox alternative meets your organization’s security standards and industry-specific compliance requirements.What’s the final opinion?Selecting the most suitable help desk software can lead to heightened customer contentment and streamlined workflow processes for your support teams.You can boost your team’s productivity without the need to expand your staff.The “best” HappyFox alternative is the one that best suits your specific requirements and constraints.We hope this blog gives you some good options for right HappyFox alternative for your business! You are welcome to share your ideas and feedback in the comments section below.Related articles10 Best Freshdesk Alternatives for Businesses in 2024The Best Customer Service Software for 202415 Best Free Tools for Startups in 2024

Modern day clients are unwilling to do business with a company that treats them merely as a ticket. They expect every business they interact with to provide fast, friendly, personal, and efficient customer service, or they will switch to a competitor.Unfortunately, ensuring that you are responsive across multiple communication channels without compromising the quality of customer service can be an uphill task.To achieve this and beat the competition, companies need a forward-thinking strategy that can unite their workforce, streamline processes, and enhance the quality of customer interactions.Imagine facilitating seamless teamwork while delivering outstanding customer service, all from one integrated platform.In this blog post, we’ll explore how utilizing Microsoft Teams for customer service can help foster a collaborative environment, build enduring customer relationships, and drive brand success. Let’s dive in. How does Microsoft Teams complement customer service?Introduced in 2016, Microsoft Teams provides a platform for over 1 million organizations to connect their customer service workforce to deliver top-notch customer experiences.Here’s how you can use MS Teams to transform customer service.Enhance workplace collaboration“77% of consumers want brands’ internal teams to communicate and collaborate so they don’t have to repeat themselves.”- KhorosWith remote work becoming increasingly common, it has never been more vital to ensure that a distributed workforce is well connected, engaged, and empowered to effectively resolve customer issues.MS Team’s strength lies in its ability to bring different segments of the workforce together—and that’s exactly what customer service needs.With built-in collaboration features such as file sharing, coauthoring, and screen sharing, help desk personnel can brainstorm and quickly come up with creative solutions that improve service levels.Empower customer support agents with readily available informationProviding agents with relevant resources ensures they deliver timely, accurate, and personalized support experiences that mold positive customer perceptions toward your brand.Adopting Microsoft Teams for customer service provides a centralized platform for agents to access the latest information, updates, and resources necessary for resolving customer issues efficiently.With real-time collaboration tools and integrations with knowledge management systems, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, and AI-powered search engines, agents can instantly retrieve customer history and preferences, share insights, and consult experts.This ensures they have the most current and relevant information to provide accurate and timely support.This helps customer support teams to:Streamline customer support operationsReduce ticket resolution timesDeliver satisfying customer experiencesImprove overall customer satisfactionStreamline workflowsHaving a unified platform that consolidates all tools and customer interactions is crucial for customer support operations.By adopting MS Teams for customer service, you can bring together everything from incoming tickets to essential productivity tools in one easy-to-navigate location.This approach eliminates the tool-switching chaos and stress involved in gathering scattered information.Moreover, it offers a cohesive interface for handling all forms of customer communication, including chat, voice calls, and video calls, enabling support teams to effortlessly start and track conversations, reduce response times, enhance service quality, and boost overall customer satisfaction.Provide 24/7 supportOffering round-the-clock customer support is critical in today’s global market to accommodate clients in various time zones and provide immediate assistance for urgent issues.Microsoft Teams facilitates this kind of customer support through its compatibility with a range of devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.This allows customer service representatives to respond to and address issues at any time, from any place.Such flexibility overcomes time-zone constraints, ensuring customer support remains consistent and reliable.This continuous availability also facilitates feedback gathering in real-time, which helps in resolving issues quickly and enhancing products or services, which, in turn, contributes to building a strong brand and elevating customer trust.Personalize customer experiencesTailoring customer support to meet individual preferences, needs, and historical interactions is essential for effectively addressing customer problems and improving service recovery.MS Teams makes every interaction you have with clients more customer-centric, conversational, and human.Customer support agents can utilize these capabilities to provide real-time solutions that are relevant and adapt to individual customer preferences.For example, an agent could use screen sharing and remote assistance to walk a customer through solutions to complex issues that require visual aid.This type of customer service feels more intimate and relevant, strengthening bonds and cultivating lasting customer relations.Facilitate training and knowledge sharingAccording to Research.com, 68% of employees prefer to learn or train in the workplace. Incorporating Microsoft Teams into your customer service operations provides a dependable platform for ongoing employee education and knowledge exchange.Managers can deliver live or recorded sessions, share materials, and engage in real-time discussions with employees by creating dedicated channels for different topics or departments.MS Teams’ ability to integrate various apps and tools, such as file sharing, wikis, and project management utilities, enhances the learning experience.Cross-departmental collaboration is also empowered as customer service staff can easily reach out to subject matter experts in other teams, ask questions, and share insights, fostering a culture of knowledge exchange.This interconnection ensures that customer service agents have access to the latest information and resources, enabling them to resolve customer issues more confidently.Ideal scenarios for using Teams in customer serviceHere are some situations in which you may want to utilize MS Teams for customer service:When providing real-time, omnichannel support: By integrating MS Teams with a variety of other tools and services, such as social media platforms, live chat tools, and email, you allow customers to quickly find solutions via their preferred channel.When you have a remote or hybrid workforce: MS Teams’ compatibility with multiple devices and its ability to be accessed from any location makes it a perfect tool for companies that employ remote or hybrid work models. It enables supervisors to effectively manage their teams and facilitates seamless collaboration among agents, allowing them to offer customer support from wherever they may be.When your customer support team already uses MS Teams: Your customer service representatives may already be utilizing MS Teams in their everyday tasks. If so, integrating customer service operations within Teams would eliminate the need for additional training and the adoption of new customer service tools.When you want to foster collaboration and teamwork: Should a service delivery emergency arise or should customer support agents encounter intricate customer service inquiries, it may become necessary to assemble a dedicated customer service team to work collaboratively via Teams to resolve the problem.When you want to improve your customer experience: In the quest to improve customer experiences and build stronger relationships, you can leverage MS Teams to gather feedback from customers, track customer interactions, and analyze data to identify areas for improvement.How to use MS Teams as a help deskMicrosoft Teams doesn’t have a specific customer support add-on. Therefore, how exactly can you provide efficient customer service using Microsoft Teams?The secret lies in integration.To set up Teams for customer service operations, you will need to integrate it with dedicated customer support software, like LIKE.TG, to retrieve, display, and resolve support requests efficiently.LIKE.TG fully integrates with Microsoft Teams to facilitate fast response times to customer requests and ensure better coordination amongst customer support agents, managers, and members from other departments—all from a single screen.Refer to Syncfusion’s article on how to install and configure Microsoft Teams for customer support with LIKE.TG to learn more.After setting up the MS Teams environment for customer service, you can use the combined features of LIKE.TG and Teams to:Share files, screenshots, and other resources with colleagues and customersReceive instant notifications for each ticketing eventTrack the progress of tickets right from your MS Teams channelsCreate and manage tasks efficientlyUpdate customer data across platforms without leaving TeamsEasily collaborate when resolving customer issuesProvide personalized customer supportOptimize your customer service with Microsoft TeamsMS Teams offers a robust and flexible platform that can help you provide better customer service.Using Teams for customer service, you can leverage its ubiquity, versatility, and efficiency to deliver faster, easier, and more personalized customer experiences.LIKE.TG harnesses Teams to streamline customer service processes, provide real-time notifications, and track tickets along the resolution pipeline.Contact usto schedule alive demoto experience how you can utilize all the capabilities of Teams plus the power of our unrivaled customer service solution to deliver top notch customer experiences from a single screen. Or, start afree trialto get instant access today.We trust that you found value and insight in this blog post. Are there any additional strategies you employ for leveraging MS Teams in customer service?Your input is highly appreciated. Feel free to share your thoughts and feedback in the comments section.Recommended reads15 Best Small Business Tools Software (2024)SaaS Customer Success: 9 Best Practices, Importance, and Tools12 Reasons to Choose User-Friendly Help Desk Software7 Best Help Desk Software Features for Boosting Your Customer Support

Productivity is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Different organizations have different needs, preferences, and goals for working efficiently and effectively. That’s why there is no single productivity tool or software that can suit everyone.Instead, you need to find the right combination of productivity tools and software to achieve your desired outcomes, whether you want to empower teams with seamless collaboration, optimize time management, or track the tiniest details of project performance.Productivity tools are beneficial for businesses in a multitude of ways, such as increasing customer satisfaction scores and elevating operations to new heights.In this blog, we’ll learn about what productivity apps are and which ones are the best in the market. What are productivity tools?Productivity tools are applications designed to help individuals and organizations improve their work efficiency and effectiveness.They streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and optimize time management to empower individuals and teams to achieve their goals with less effort and in less time.Selecting the right productivity apps for your business depends on the following factors:Nature of the workIndividual preferencesThe requirements of the team or organizationBest productivity tools on the marketA productive and efficient team significantly contributes to the success of your business. Various productivity tools serve different functions that you can explore to streamline and enhance your team’s efficiency. Here is a compilation of the top productivity apps available today.Customer service1. LIKE.TGLIKE.TG is advanced customer service software that improves support agents’ productivity by centralizing customer inquiries, streamlining ticket management, and facilitating team collaboration.This results in quicker resolutions and higher customer satisfaction.Key featuresAI Copilot: Analyze tickets, auto-translate them, generate responses, and summarize lengthy ticket conversationsTicket management: Organize and prioritize customer queries through a centralized systemKnowledge base: Maintain a knowledge base for quick issue resolution and self-service optionsMultichannel support: Manage customer communications across email and live chatAutomation: Automate repetitive tasks to improve response timesPredefined templates: Use canned responses for consistent answers to common questionsShared inbox: Organize support requests, route them to the right agents, and improve customer satisfactionTask management: Create and manage all ticket-related tasks or activities and speed up ticket resolutionMobile help desk: Provide customer support from any location, at any time with access to a mobile help desk app and boost your productivityReporting and analytics: Gather, gauge, and analyze different productivity metrics to understand and improve your customer support betterPricing plansAgent-Based plans:Scale:$25for 3 agents/monthGrowth:$50for 3 agents/monthEnterprise:$75for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential:$799per monthPro:$1499per monthBusiness:Contact us2. HubSpotHubSpot is a cloud-based productivity software that integrates marketing, sales, and customer service.It automates workflows, analyzes data, and provides a user-friendly interface to save time and enhance customer engagement.Its Marketing Hub product allows teams to launch and manage marketing campaigns while utilizing HubSpot’s CRM system.This integration tracks customer interactions, creating a shared knowledge base for seamless team coordination and connection-building with potential clients.HubSpot centralizes customer journeys and team efforts, optimizing operations and encouraging internal collaboration.Key features Contact database and easy contact managementSync data across marketing, customer service, and sales teamsEmail tracking and templatesReports and analyticsPricingStarts at $18 per monthFree trial duration: 14 daysMobile device management3. ScalefusionScalefusion is a comprehensive MDM solution that helps businesses manage and secure a wide range of devices. It supports multiple operating systems, including Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows. Scalefusion offers robust device management capabilities, such as remote control, app management, and security policies, helping businesses maintain secure and efficient operations.Key Features:OS update and patch management – Manage and automate operating system updates and security patches across all managed devices.Conditional Email Access (CEA) – Control access to corporate email based on compliance with MDM policies.Windows App Catalog – Distribute and manage applications on Windows devices through a centralized app catalog.AirThink AI – AI tool based on OpenAI’s GPT language model, it’s designed and trained to assist IT Admins in managing their devices more efficiently.OneIdP IAM suite – Implement a unified identity provider (IdP) for seamless single sign-on (SSO) and enhanced security across all managed devices.Maker-Checker: Implement a multi-approval process for added security on device actions where one admin initiates an action and another approves it.Pricing Plan:Essential: $2 per device per month (billed annually)Growth: $3.5 per device per month (billed annually)Business: $5 per device per month (billed annually)Enterprise: $6 per device per month (billed annually)Free trial duration: 14 daysAutomation4. Appy Pie AutomateAppy Pie Automate is a powerful workflow automation tool designed to streamline business processes effortlessly. Users can create complex workflows, known as Connects, that initiate actions based on trigger events in one application and perform subsequent actions in another.Connects in Appy Pie Automate enable users to efficiently manage multiple tasks simultaneously, reducing manual effort and enhancing productivity.Key featuresAutomation: Build automated workflows (Connects) based on conditional triggers.App Integration: Seamlessly integrates with a wide range of apps and devices.Customization: Define triggers and actions to automate tasks precisely as needed.Sync: Synchronize tasks and calendars across various platforms for unified management.Appy Pie Automate supports extensive integrations, including Mailchimp integrations, ensuring compatibility with essential tools for marketing and communication.This tool is ideal for businesses seeking to automate repetitive tasks and optimize workflow efficiency without requiring extensive coding knowledge.Pricing: Starts at $12/mo. with Enterprise plans available.Free Trial Duration: 7 days5. ZapierZapier is a productivity tool that automates workflows by linking different apps and services without any coding.Users set up multistep automations, called Zaps, that depend on trigger events in one app and a resulting action performed in another app.Zaps allow users to complete multiple routine tasks at once, simplifying repetitive processes.Zapier is compatible with a diverse array of apps, making it a flexible solution. It also provides scheduling support, formatter tools, and webhooks to customize Zaps according to any business requirements.Key featuresAutomation workflowsMultistep ZapsTriggers and actionsIntegrationPricingStarts at $19 per monthFree trial duration: 14 daysProject management6. LeadSquaredLeadSquared is an advanced sales automation and CRM platform designed to streamline sales processes and drive business growth. With its intuitive interface and robust features, LeadSquared empowers sales teams to efficiently manage leads, track customer interactions, and close deals faster.The platform offers comprehensive tools for lead scoring, email automation, task management, and advanced analytics, ensuring that you can make data-driven decisions and optimize your sales strategy.Key featuresLead Scoring and Management: Prioritize leads effectively with dynamic scoring based on engagement and behavior, ensuring the sales team focuses on the most promising prospects.Email and Marketing Automation: Create, schedule, and track email campaigns with ease, automating repetitive tasks to nurture leads and maintain consistent communication.Sales Pipeline Management: Visualize and manage the sales pipeline with customizable stages, allowing to track the progress of each deal and forecast sales with accuracy.Task and Activity Management: Stay organized and boost productivity by assigning tasks, setting reminders, and tracking all customer interactions in one centralized platform.Pricing: Available upon request7. AsanaAsana is a versatile project management productivity tool known for its user-friendly interface.This productivity software handles work tracking and facilitates team collaboration with organizational tools.Strategic planning is enhanced through goal setting, portfolios, and reporting dashboards. Automation capabilities, forms, and templates streamline operations.With customizable workflows and strong integrations, Asana is essential for project management and team coordination.Key featuresTask management: Create, assign, and track tasks with due dates and prioritiesProject planning: Visualize project timelines with boards and Gantt chartsIntegrations: Connect with various apps to enhance functionalityCustomization: Adapt fields and templates for better task organizationPricingStarts at $10.99 per user/monthFree trial duration: 30 days8. nTasknTask is one of the project management productivity tools that combines task management, time tracking, and collaboration into one solution.It optimizes productivity with Gantt charts, risk management, and meeting modules.It includes Kanban boards for visual workflow management and effective team interactions.nTask seamlessly integrates timesheets into daily operations. It revolutionizes project and task management, empowering teams to achieve their goals with clarity and control.Key featuresProject management: Comprehensive tools for task and project managementTime tracking: Built-in time tracking features for better productivity analysisCollaboration: Discussion boards, document sharing, and team collaborationGantt charts: Visualize project timelines and dependenciesPricingStarts at $3 per monthFree trial duration: 7 days9. TrelloTrello is a well-regarded project management productivity tool that visualizes workflows, making project collaboration smooth and satisfying for support agents.Its intuitive design makes it simple to create and arrange tasks utilizing an eye-catching virtual board system.Effective monitoring and categorization are ensured by features like labels, checklists, and adjustable deadlines.For real-time collaboration, Trello easily integrates with other productivity apps, such as Slack and Google Drive.Trello also has an integrated automation solution, Butler, that helps teams work more efficiently by automating tedious activities.Key featuresVisual project management: Organize tasks on boards with cards and listsCollaboration: Assign tasks, comment on cards, and share boardsAutomation: Automate workflows and tasksPricingStarts at $5 per user/monthFree trial duration: 14 days10. GanttPROGanttPRO is an online project management productivity software designed to enhance productivity and collaboration within teams.At its core, GanttPRO provides a visual representation of project timelines through Gantt charts, allowing for clear and intuitive tracking of project progress.Users can select a grid view for detailed task information, a board view for agile project management, and a portfolio view for an overview of all ongoing projects.Key featuresInteractive Gantt charts for project planningTask dependencies and critical path analysisTeam collaboration with real-time updatesResource management and workload trackingPricingStarts at $7.99 per user/monthFree trial duration: 14 days11. ProofHubProofHub is a productivity software that revolutionizes project management and team collaboration.It promotes organization, accountability, and seamless communication. Users can assign tasks, manage workflows, and track time easily.It centralizes and streamlines processes, enhances collaboration, and encourages a cooperative workspace.Its real-time chat and comprehensive time tracking features ensure swift teamwork and effective time management.Key featuresTask management: Visualize task progress and dependencies through task lists and boardsIntegration: Integrate support for popular productivity apps like Google Calendar and DropboxTime tracking: Keep track of time spent on each stepDiscussion and collaboration: Centralize discussions for effective team communicationPricingStarts at $45 per monthFree trial duration: 14 daysTask management12. ClickUpClickUp is a versatile project management tool with customizable features for effective task management, collaboration, and advanced reporting.Its user-friendly interface allows easy switching between views and workflow automation.ClickUp docs and whiteboards facilitate team documentation and brainstorming.Key featuresTask management: Robust tools for creating, assigning, and tracking tasksProject management: Plan and manage projects with customizable featuresCollaboration: Shared workspaces, comments, and document sharingViews: Offers multiple views like Kanban, Gantt charts, and more to accommodate diverse workflowsPricingStarts at $7 per user/month13. TodoistTodoist is a comprehensive task management system that helps users organize, prioritize, and collaborate on tasks efficiently.The intuitive interface allows for quick setup of tasks, recurring due dates, and detailed sub-tasks, all neatly organized within customized projects.Todoist also visualizes progress to help users maintain motivation and focus. This productivity software is compatible across platforms, ensuring access to to-do lists and enabling seamless collaboration whether at your desk or on the go.Key featuresTask management: Prioritize tasks with due dates and priority levelsTo-do listsCollaboration: Real-time updates for collaborative workProductivity tracking: Track completed tasks and set daily/weekly goalsPricingStarts at $6 per user/month for teamsFree trial duration: 30 daysEmail management14. RightinboxRightinbox is a Gmail extension productivity software that transforms your inbox into a powerful tool for email management.With features like email scheduling, recurring emails, and email tracking, it optimizes your email interactions.It seamlessly integrates into Gmail, providing convenient options like send later and email reminders to help you stay organized.By using Rightinbox, users can streamline their email tasks and turn each correspondence into an opportunity for success.Key featuresEmail productivity: Enhances Gmail with features like email tracking and send laterEmail reminders: Set reminders so you never forget an important conversationRead receipts: Get notified when recipients read your emailsMultiple signatures: Set up custom signatures and use the right one at the right timePricingStarts at $ 7.95 per month15. ShiftShift is a productivity tool that simplifies digital workload management by bringing together multiple email accounts, applications, and extensions into a single interface.It improves productivity by offering quick access to emails, messaging platforms, and more. Shift enhances workflow efficiency with focused web tabs, a universal search feature, and customizable workspaces for collaboration.By consolidating all digital productivity apps into one interface, Shift boosts productivity and simplifies managing multiple accounts.Key featuresUnified interface: Centralized platform for managing multiple email accounts and applicationsApp integration: Easily switch between productivity tools, email, and messaging appsCross-platform: Works seamlessly on Windows, macOS, and LinuxOffers focused web tabs and unified search across accountsPricingStarts at $149 per yearFree trial duration: 7 days16. FleepFleep is a flexible productivity tool designed to make teamwork and communication easier.Its smooth email integration makes it a unique messaging tool that lets you handle discussions without getting bogged down in never-ending email threads.It also streamlines file sharing, making it simple to send and retrieve crucial information.Key featuresTeam chat and instant messagingShared file storage and collaborationTask creation and project coordinationEmail integration for external communicationPricingStarts at €5 per user/monthCommunication17. SlackSlack is a productivity software collaboration hub that streamlines teamwork with messaging, file sharing, and project management.It offers real-time communication and organized channels for easy connection.With automated workflows and message archives, Slack enhances workforce productivity and collaboration.Key featuresReal-time messaging: Instant messaging for team communicationChannel organization: Structured channels for organized discussionFile sharing: Share documents, images, and files within the platformIntegration hub: Connects with a wide range of third-party apps for enhanced functionalityPricingStarts at $8.75 per user/monthFree trial duration: Contact for info18. GoTo MeetingGoTo Meeting is a versatile web conferencing productivity software that enhances virtual collaboration.Users can host and join meetings from any location.It offers features like screen sharing, recording, and note-taking, keeping participants organized and productive.The user-friendly interface provides clear audio and video for interaction and content sharing.GoTo Meeting easily transforms online meetings into dynamic conference calls, and keeps scheduling and starting meetings simple.Key featuresVideo conferencing: Host virtual meetings with high-quality video and audioScreen sharing: Collaborate by sharing screens during meetingsMeeting recording and transcriptionPricingStarts at $12 per organizer/monthFree trial duration: 14 days19. LoomLoom is a video messaging productivity software that allows you to record your screen, camera, microphone, and application audio.It automatically saves videos to the cloud and instantly provides a shareable link.Key features Video messaging and screen recordingQuick and easy video creationScreen capture for demonstrationsCommenting and feedback on videosPricingStarts at $12.50 per creator/monthFree trial duration: 14 days20. ChantyChanty is a flexible productivity software that improves teamwork and communication.Its user-friendly design integrates task management, video calling, and messaging.Its robust search function finds information fast, saving you time and effort.Chanty integrates with other apps to bring data together from wherever your team works.Features like video conferencing and voice calls improve team communication even further, fostering a cohesive and effective work atmosphere.Key featuresApp integration: Connect with third-party apps to enhance functionalityTask management: Create, assign, and track tasksVoice and video calls: Real-time communication for remote teamsPermissions: Define roles and assign access levels to team membersPricingStarts at $3 per user/monthTime tracking 21. TogglToggl Track is a reliable productivity software for tracking employee timesheets. Its user-friendly interface allows for effortless time tracking across projects.The software’s reporting capabilities provide insights into work habits, benefiting freelancers, teams, and businesses.By replacing traditional timesheets and integrating with multiple applications, Toggl saves time and optimizes efficiency.Key featuresTime tracking: Track billable and non-billable hoursReporting: Analyze project timelines and budget allocationIntegration: Integrate with various project management productivity toolsPricingStarts at $9 per user/monthFree trial duration: 30 days22. HarvestHarvest is a productivity tool for freelancers and project management teams.It focuses on accurate time tracking, expense tracking, and project budget management. It integrates with project management software for detailed reporting.Harvest simplifies billing processes, provides a clear overview of time allocation, and helps optimize workflow.It allows time tracking through web interfaces, smartphones, and external applications. Harvest is invaluable for productivity, accuracy, and financial transparency.Key featuresInvoicing: Create professional invoices based on tracked time and expensesDelivers intuitive time tracking across platforms and devicesReporting: Generate detailed reports for time analysis and project insightsPricingStarts at $10.80 per user/monthFree trial duration: 30 days23. EverhourEverhour is a useful productivity tool for freelancers and small businesses. It helps with tracking time, improving productivity, and simplifying billing tasks.The productivity app integrates with popular project management tools and allows for clear project planning and expense tracking.With comprehensive reports, users can effectively manage project budgets to promote growth and success.Key featuresTime tracking: Simple and intuitive interface for tracking work hoursBillable hours: Easily distinguish and track billable and non-billable hoursReporting: Generate reports for time analysis and project insightsTeam collaboration: Facilitates team communication on project progressPricingStarts at $8.50 per user/monthFree trial duration: 14 days24. HubstaffHubstaff is a productivity software that facilitates time tracking and increases team productivity.It provides activity monitoring and project management features that allow businesses to streamline operations, monitor remote teams, and optimize project workflows.It can be accessed via mobile or desktop apps.Key featuresTime tracking: Monitor work hours and activitiesProject management: Track projects, tasks, and team productivityInvoicing: Generate invoices based on tracked timePricingStarts at $4.99 per user/monthFree trial duration: 14 days25. ForestForest is a mobile app that boosts productivity by encouraging focused work intervals through a gamified approach, fostering better time management and reducing distractions.It turns concentration into a game, motivating users to grow virtual trees as they focus on tasks.If users leave the app, their tree withers, encouraging them to stay engaged.Experience a peaceful digital forest, with each tree reflecting your attention to tasks. Embrace this unique method, plant your first tree, and watch your forest flourish as a symbol of your accomplishments.Key featuresFocus management: Encourages focus by growing virtual trees during work sessionsGamification: Users earn rewards for avoiding distractionProductivity tracking: Analyzes daily focus patterns and screen timeCustomization: Allows users to set their focus duration and preferencesPricingForest is available in free or paid formats for Android, and is only available as a paid app for iOS. It is also available as a Google Chrome extension.26. PaymoPaymo is one of the productivity tools for small- and medium-sized businesses that enhances productivity.It integrates resource scheduling, Gantt charts, and invoicing to optimize workflows and improve efficiency.With robust time tracking features, Paymo allows users to monitor jobs accurately and generate informative reports.Paymo’s intuitive interface makes it a valuable partner in project success and business growth.Key featuresProject management: Plan, execute, and track projects with task management featuresTime tracking: Monitor billable hours, time entries, and expensesInvoicing: Create professional invoices based on tracked timeReporting: Generate detailed reports for project insights and financial analysisPricingStarts at $5.90 per user/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysKnowledge management27. Bit.aiBit.ai is a premier document collaboration productivity app that provides a unified space for creating, collaborating, and organizing knowledge effortlessly.With customizable workflows and workspaces, teams can tailor their environment for seamless document management.Key featuresCustomizable workflows: Tailor your collaborative environment for efficient project managementCollaboratibe workspaces: Create dedicated spaces for different projects or teamsAI Genius: Enhance productivity with an AI-powered content creation toolMultimedia integration: Embed rich media in documents for a dynamic and engaging experiencePricingStarts at $8 per user/month28. EvernoteEvernote is one of the versatile productivity tools that provides a centralized platform for comprehensive note-taking, document organization, and multimedia integration that ensures seamless information retrieval across devices.It offers features like task management, document scanning, and web clipping to improve productivity.It is essential for professionals, students, and anyone who values organization.Key featuresNote-taking: Use text, images, audio, scans, PDFs, and documentsOrganization: Utilize notebooks, tags, and a hierarchical structure for efficient organizationCross-platform: Evernote syncs notes across devices for accessibility on the goPowerful search capabilities and customizable dashboardPricingStarts at $10.83 per monthFree trial duration: 14 days29. Dropbox PaperDropbox Paper is a productivity software that provides collaborative workspaces and streamlines document-centric tasks.Key featuresReal-time collaborative document editingTask assignment and inline commentingIntegration with Dropbox for file storageSupport for multimedia content in documentsPricingIncluded with Dropbox, which starts at $20 per user/month for teams.Free trial duration: 30 daysNote-taking30. SimplenoteSimplenote is one of the productivity apps that is an effective and easily accessible note-taking program.Its elegant design makes seamless cross-device synchronization possible.Orderly management of notes is encouraged by its uncluttered design.A smooth note-taking experience is facilitated by features like version history, labeling, and quick syncing.Simplenote is among the useful productivity apps for organizing processes and taking notes while on the go.Key featuresMinimalist note-taking: Quick and easy note creation with a clean interfaceSynchronization: Sync notes across devicesTags: Organize notes with tags for easy retrievalCollaboration: Share and collaborate on notesPricingFree, but provides an optional $19.99 per month subscription to support Simplenote’s development.31. Google KeepGoogle Keep is among the user-friendly note-taking productivity apps that boosts productivity.It includes support to create, store, and manage notes, lists, and reminders.Accessible on multiple devices and browsers, it is widely used for individual and collaborative note-taking.Its intuitive interface resembles digital sticky notes, enabling users to jot down thoughts and to-dos anytime, anywhere.Key featuresSimple note-taking: Capture and organize notes, checklists, and imagesReminders: Set reminders based on time or locationCross-platform sync: Access and sync notes across devicesOrganization: Color-code and label notesPricingIncluded with Google Workspace, which starts at $6 per user/month for businesses.Free trial duration: 14 days32. Box NotesBox Notes is a game-changing productivity software that transforms team collaboration on documents.This online note-taking productivity software simplifies note creation and real-time sharing while boosting productivity with its extensive version history, robust templates.The interactive commenting features fosters efficient teamwork and document management.With its live editing feature, Box Notes guarantees secure and effortless idea flow among team members.Key featuresCollaborative note-taking: Create and edit notes in real time with team membersIntegration with Box: Allows seamless access to cloud storageRich embeds: Preview Box files like videos and presentations inside a notePricingStarts at $5 per user/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysThe power of productivity toolsBy integrating the right productivity apps, companies can foster a culture of continuous improvement and agility in any department, enabling them to respond to market demands with finesse and deliver exceptional service that keeps customers coming back for more.Embracing these technologies for small business ideas is not just about keeping up; it’s about setting the pace in a world where exceptional operational efficiency and customer delight go hand in hand.Schedule a free trial or book a live demo of LIKE.TG to experience the various features that can maximize your support agents’ productivity. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the LIKE.TG team.We hope you found this blog on productivity tools helpful and insightful. We’re eager to hear your feedback. How have you incorporated productivity tools into your day-to-day work?Do you have any advice or strategies for improving team collaboration and streamlining workflow processes using these productivity apps? Share your suggestions and experiences in the comment section below.

To establish lasting relationships with customers, mastering effective communication is essential.Numerous companies have incorporated live chat support as one of their key communication channels for customer service.This comes as no surprise, given that a study by Forrester indicates that 42% of consumers favor companies that have a live chat option on their websites, a significant increase from 27% in 2019.So, what steps should companies take to fully leverage their live chat support feature? What do they stand to gain from integrating one into their customer service?In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of live chat support, share some best practices for implementation, and showcase real-world examples of how businesses use live chat to achieve success. What is live chat support?Live chat support is a way for customers to instantly communicate with a customer service representative to have their questions answered and concerns addressed.The live chat tool can be embedded in the following:WebsiteMobile appsSocial media platformCustomer support portalsBusinesses utilize live chat support for immediate engagement and to deliver real-time assistance to customers.Key characteristics of live chat supportThe following are the major characteristics of live chat support:Real-time interaction: Live chat facilitates immediate communication, allowing instant engagement between customers and agents for quick problem-solving.Integration with a knowledge base: Live chat programs seamlessly integrate with knowledge base systems to empower support agents to provide accurate information during customer interactions.Proactive engagement: Live chat makes it easy for users to initiate conversations with businesses. This makes it more likely that the support team can resolve their issues before they can complain in feedback mechanisms like reviews.Accessibility: Live chat can be accessible from any device with an internet connection, providing customers with convenient and flexible communication and customer serviceAutomation: Through automation, a live chat can efficiently handle routine queries, gather initial information, and streamline the customer support process, enhancing overall efficiency.Live chat best practices for exceptional customer serviceAdopt the following strategies to maximize on the potential on your live chat tool:Integrate the live chat button in the right placeContemporary clients often lack patience and may leave your website if they run into a problem and struggle to locate help.Examine your customers’ browsing habits to identify areas within your website or application that may require assistance and conveniently position the live chat feature there.Speed up responses with canned responsesQuick responses are one of the main reasons customers prefer live chat over other communication channels. Craft canned responses to provide uniform responses and significantly improve your response times.Collaborate with your team to create a detailed collection of canned responses tailored to the typical situations they face in live chats.These replies should be crafted to sound conversational and warm to establish a personal connection with your customers.The canned responses should be customized where appropriate to retain a natural tone that doesn’t make customers doubt the presence of a human on the other end of the conversation.Train your agents effectivelyProvide live chat agents with extensive training on your products, services, and company policies.Equip them with essential customer service skills like active listening, problem solving, and expressions of customer empathy to enable them to go the extra mile to achieve customer satisfaction.Offer support in multiple languagesIf you serve a global customer base, offering live chat support in multiple languages caters to non-English speaking customers and improves their experience.Use translation software to demonstrate your commitment to inclusivity and global reach.Add a human touch to personalize the chatEven though live chat is a text-based interaction, the use of a personal touch can make a big difference in shaping customer perceptions.Always greet customers with their name and refer to their past interactions whenever possible to ensure they know you are up to speed.Tailor your communication language, tone, and style to meet the customer’s preferences. You can also use appropriate emojis to create a warm and friendly atmosphere for the customer.Add video to the live chat support experienceFor more involved conversations, face-to-face interactions tend to be more engaging and satisfying because customers can see the agent to whom they are talking.Apart from cultivating a sense of trust, video chat can also help explain complex issues or instructions that would otherwise be challenging to explain via text alone.Agents can also share their screens or use co-browsing features during the chat session to guide customers through technical step-by-step procedures.This improves team efficiency and saves time for both parties involved.Establish clear criteria for intelligent chat routingLive chat software can support the use of intelligent chat routing so customer inquiries are sent to the appropriate agent or department according to set criteria.Establish clear protocols for directing, transferring, and escalating chats to guarantee that each new chat is picked up by an appropriate agent quickly.Monitor performance and continuously update the live chat toolTreat live chat software as an evolving tool. Examine key performance metrics like response times, chat duration, resolution time, and customer satisfaction scores.Regularly review and update your live chat strategy to ensure optimal performanceFurthermore, ensure that you stay updated with new technologies and trends in live chat support to continuously enhance the customer experience and stay ahead of the curve.Use tags for proper categorization of chatsCategorizing customer interactions through tags is considered a top practice for managing live chats.This function allows agents to classify chat sessions according to their subject matter or other parameters.Assigning labels such as product inquiry, technical issue, or pricing to ongoing chats enables you to sort these issues and refer to them in the future.This practice streamlines the monitoring of particular interaction types, aids in recognizing frequent concerns, and helps in the training and onboarding of new team members.Integrate live chat with other toolsConnect your live chat platform with your customer relationship management tool, help desk ticketing system, knowledge base software, or other customer data systems to allows agents to access vital information quickly and provide seamless support.You can also integrate live chat with other support channels so that agents can seamlessly switch between them, if necessary, without losing context or having to repeat information.For example, an agent can ask a customer to switch to email to attach a file following a conversation they just had in the live chat window.Request customer feedback after every conversationThe live chat feature is not solely for addressing inquiries and providing information. It’s an avenue for gathering customer feedback.Include a customer satisfaction survey at the end of each chat session to collect feedback on the quality of the interaction.Solicit ideas on how you can improve the effectiveness of the live chat tool.Optimize the live chat tool for mobile useA significant number of users access websites via their smartphones and therefore expect to access customer support on the move.Ensure that the live chat features on your website are compatible with mobile devices.By enhancing your live chat for mobile compatibility, you unlock more accessibility and convenience, enabling customers to reach your support team whenever and wherever they have need.Benefits of live chats that businesses should knowWith the use of a live chat tool, businesses can have real-time conversations with their customers. This has many advantages.Enhances customer engagementLive chat allows businesses to engage with customers and provide them with instant answers and resolutions. This improves response time, personal connections, and reduces cart abandonment.Live chat also allows businesses to proactively engage with clients and increase customer interactions.By providing convenient and accessible communication, live chat helps businesses build stronger relationships and encourages customers to return.Improves customer satisfactionThe immediacy and efficiency that live chat provides makes customers feel their time is valued and that the support teams take their concerns seriously.A live chat can help create a loyal customer base that knows it can rely on quick support from your company.Increased efficiency for businessLive chat allows support agents to:Handle numerous conversations simultaneouslySwiftly respond to customer inquiriesResolve issuesSuccessfully finalize transactionsThis heightened efficiency not only reduces operational costs but also improves the overall effectiveness of the business, leading to increased profitability and growth.Provides valuable data insightsThrough live chat support you can get real-time data on customer interactions in order to evaluate:Customer behaviorAgent performanceCustomer feedbackConversion ratesAnalyzing this data can reveal trends, identify customer needs, and give you ways to optimize product offerings.Additionally, live chat data can contribute to important performance metrics like response times and resolution rates, providing insights into operational efficiency.Boost in sales and conversionsLive chat software helps in guiding customers seamlessly through checkout, answering questions before they become irritated, making recommendations based on the customer’s needs, and guiding them to the best option for their situation.It’s like having a personal shopper to give them tips whenever they want them, resulting in a win-win for both the customer and the company.This proactive customer support and guidance have proven to boost online sales and conversions. In fact, according to Zippia research, live chat is known to increase conversion rates by 40%.Provides accessibility and convenienceLive chat can allow customers to receive immediate assistance at any time, irrespective of the device used and their location, eliminating the need to wait on the phone or for email responses.If a company can offer 24/7 availability, it’s particularly helpful for customers in different time zones or with busy schedules.Builds trust and credibilityLive chat is a powerful tool that builds customer trust and credibility by providing immediate assistance and demonstrating a business’s commitment to customer service.This real-time interaction assures customers that help is just a chat message away.Ultimately, a trustworthy and credible business attracts loyal customers, contributing to long-term success.Competitive advantageLive chat helps businesses deliver a high level of responsiveness in a world where consumers expect quick and efficient service.This responsiveness can distinguish a business from its competitors, many of whom may still rely on slower, less interactive forms of customer service.Offers personalized customer experienceBy providing real-time, one-on-one conversations, live chat can address individual questions, offer personalized product recommendations, and deliver customized solutions.This level of personalization enhances the customer’s experience, making them feel valued and understood.Reduces support costsUnlike traditional phone-based systems that restrict agents to one-on-one conversations, live chat platforms let them manage several interactions concurrently.This multitasking capability cuts down on the necessity for a larger support team, which in turn translates to cost savings for businesses.Companies can optimize their support operations, delivering prompt, efficient service while maintaining a lean staffing model.Live chat support examples from real brandsHere are some real-life examples of live chat support:Bank of AmericaBank of America provides live chat support for its customers to get help with their banking needs. Customers can chat with a customer service representative to:Discuss account detailsReport lost or stolen cardsGet help with online bankingReceive guidance on financial productsThe live chat feature is particularly useful for customers who need immediate assistance but do not wish to visit a branch or wait on hold for a phone representative.The bank ensures secure and private communication to protect sensitive financial information during the chat sessions.AmazonAmazon, the largest e-commerce platform in the world, offers live chat support to assist customers with inquiries regarding product details, ordering, shipping, returns, and refunds.When a customer visits the Amazon help section and selects an issue they need help with, the website often proposes the option to chat with a representative.Amazon’s live chat support is known for being responsive and helpful, allowing customers to resolve their issues quickly without the necessity of a phone call.MicrosoftMicrosoft offers live chat support on its support website for a variety of its products, including Windows and Office.Customers can use this support when they are experiencing technical difficulties, need help with software installation, or have questions about product features and licenses.Integrate live chat support to enhance the customer service experienceLive chat is not just a communication tool; it’s an opportunity to cultivate real-time engagement and build enduring customer relationships.By implementing best practices and using the right software, you can create a seamless and personalized live chat experience that keeps your customers returning to your brand.Soon, LIKE.TG will introduce its Live chat feature and some advanced functionalities by March 2024, which could be the perfect solution for enhancing customer interactions. Stay tuned with us to experience the exciting new features coming your way!Contact usto schedule a live demo to discover how LIKE.TG can enrich your customer experience.Or sign up for a free trial to get instant access today.I hope this article serves as a valuable companion on your live chat support journey. Do you have any questions or additional ideas?Feel free to share your feedback in the comment section below.Recommended readsWhat is Customer Service? The Ultimate Guide20 Best Customer Service Tips for Better Support in 20247 Great Benefits of Customer Self-Service Portal

The failure or success of a customer relationship depends on the customer’s overall experience with the company’s customer service. Customers tend to stay when they have positive experiences and leave for a competitor when the service was inadequate or frustrating. According toZippia, 91% of customers are willing to leave a business for a competitor after one poor customer service.So, aiming your support team toward meeting or exceeding customer service expectations is key. But do you know what the customer service experience is or how to implement the most effective strategies?In this article, we will take you through creating a strategy for the best customer service experience and the benefits of implementing one. What is customer service experience?The customer service experience refers to customers’ overall feeling andperceptionof a company throughout their interactions with it.It involves every touchpoint a customer has with the business, both online and offline. This includes:Ease of use and completeness of a company’s websiteAny pre-purchase contact initiationThe purchasing processIssue triage, problem resolution, and customer supportCustomer follow-up, feedback, and post-service relationsCompanies that prioritize excellent customer service are more likely to establish brand loyalty in their clients and create a positive brand image. Conversely, poor customer service can lead to customer dissatisfaction, negative reviews, and potential loss of customers.Tips for delivering the best customer service experienceImprovement of the customer service experience is an ongoing commitment that involves consistent dedication rather than a one-time attempt. Thus, it is important to plan effectively.Following are a few steps and strategies to implement in order to enhance your customer service experience.Understanding customer needsThis strategy involves identifying, meeting, and having thorough awareness of the wants, preferences, andpain pointsof your clients.This can be achieved by:Collecting and analyzingcustomer feedbackSending out customer satisfaction surveysConducting market research and interviewsChecking social media mentions and commentsOnce you’ve identified your customers’ needs, you can discuss them with the appropriate teams and departments, tailor product features, and implementcustomer experience optimization strategies. This can help you meet your customers’ expectations and gain insight into what drives your customers’ satisfaction.Going beyond your customers’ expectationsBusinesses can exceed customers’ expectations and leave a lasting positive impression on customers through:Delivering a product earlier than promisedProviding an extra level of service that the customer didn’t expectGoing the extra mile in helping customers when neededBuilding acustomer-centric cultureTo develop acustomer-centricculture, ensure that all staff members prioritize and value customer concerns and happiness.This involves:Aligning your core values, procedures, and goals with customer satisfactionPersonalizing interactionsTraining agents to understand client needs as well as take responsibilityPromoting active listening andempathy in customer serviceEmpowering your employeesProvide your employees with the resources, confidence, and time to complete tasks and tackle responsibilities. Confident employees are proactive and productive, and they’re not afraid of sharing new ideas or making mistakes.Therefore, providing comprehensive training and ongoing support will ensure that your frontline staff have the knowledge, skills, and tools to address customer inquiries, resolve issues, and make decisions autonomously.Additionally, encourage a culture where employees feel valued, trusted, and empowered to take ownership ofcustomer interactions. This leads to faster resolutions and higher levels of customer and employee satisfaction.Offering proactive customer supportAnticipate the needs and concerns of customers throughout their journey and provide solutions to common difficulties that they may face. Employ preventive measures to minimize their impact.Proactive customer servicecan include:Analyzing customer data for predictive patternsIntegrating technology such asAI in customer supportTracking and implementing customer feedbackProviding timely updates on order statusesImplementing solutions likeknowledge basesAnnouncing product releases, service changes, and relevant industry newsBy adopting a proactive customer support approach, you can prove to your customers how dedicated you are to customer satisfaction.Providingseamless multichannel supportOffering multichannel support lets clients get same level of support via the means of contact with which they are most comfortable. Customers expect to communicate with businesses over a range of channels. Therefore, you need to provide 24/7 customer support on multiple communication channels to ensure customers receive assistance when they need it.These channels can be:EmailLive chatSocial mediaWeb formsImportance of an exceptional customer service experienceEnsuring you deliver the best customer service experience has the following advantages:Boosts word-of-mouth marketing and brand reputationWhen customers are satisfied, they willingly share their positive experiences with people they know and online platforms. Positive experiences shared by the customers improve a brand’s reputation, fostering trust and credibility.Additionally, positive customer service experiences acts as a key differentiator in competitive markets and often become the deciding factor in a customer’s purchasing decision.Reduces customer churnAccording toKhoros’s survey, 65% of customers leave for a competitor after a poor customer service experience.Offering empathy and quick resolution of customer concerns can build customer confidence in your brand and significantly reducecustomer churn.This contributes to the sustainability and success of a business.Builds customer trust and loyaltyDelivering outstanding customer service is essential to gaining lasting customer loyalty and trust.When customers feel valued, heard, and supported, they are more likely to feel lasting affinity toward a brand. They will keep coming back to make more purchases.Enhances employee satisfactionInvesting in the training, recognition, and support that give employees the ability to deliver excellent customer service also contributes to higher job satisfaction and morale within the business. Most people like being able to do their job well.This leads to better customer interactions, positive attitudes, and favorablecustomer relations.Examples of great customer service experiencesThe following are the real-life examples of businesses that have proved to offer the best when it comes to delivering customer service experiences.ZapposZappos is an online retailer for shoes and clothing that is known for its exceptional customer service.According to thiscustomer story on Consumerist, a customer named Jay purchased shoes on Zappos (since they were the cheapest) for a wedding he was to be the best man in. Unfortunately, his package was routed to the wrong location and couldn’t arrive on the day he was supposed to travel to the wedding location.He called Zappos and shared his dilemma. The customer service agent immediately solved his issue by upgrading his account to VIP in order to send another pair of shoes to his destination.He then said, “On top of completely taking care of my problem and adding the “VIP” bonus, she then issued a complete refund. Free shoes. Unbelievable. Zappos has earned a customer for life.”This is a customer blown away by the great customer service experience he received. By sacrificing a small amount of profit in one transaction, Zappos earned a raving review from a newly loyal customer whose story was spread across the internet. That’s cheap, excellent marketing.DisneyDisney is known for its magical experiences and exceptional customer service. They always go above and beyond to exceed guest expectations, whether it’s at their theme parks or on their cruise lines.One example of their outstanding service is astory posted on LinkedInby Liz Richardson, a Disney fan who had a disappointing experience with customer service at Disney World resorts.Concerned, she sent a thoughtful email detailing her experience to the designated customer feedback address, but also, on a whim, to the president of Disney. Surprisingly, she received a call from the VP of Disney World within an hour.The VP apologized and promised additional employee training.Additionally, as compensation, Disney gifted her family a four-night stay, including park tickets and free dining. Richardson’s family were annual visitors to the parks, and this immediate response taking full responsibility and offering rectification not only kept them as annual visitors but maintained Disney’s top reputation with anyone who read her story.Revive your business with outstanding customer service experienceThe key to a greatcustomer service experienceis to make your customers feel valued at every touchpoint.Therefore, it is important to perfect your customer service by implementing key strategies.To enjoy the fruits of an enhanced customer service experience, you can also try usingLIKE.TG. LIKE.TG is sophisticatedhelp desk softwarethat transforms your customer support system.Organize your customer emails into tickets automatically, implement safeguards to make sure no customer falls between the cracks, and provide knowledge bases to let your agents and customers easily access information they need.Schedule a30-minute live demoto discuss and see for yourself how LIKE.TG can improve your support team’s workflow and customer service. Or start a15-day free trialto let your team test out LIKE.TG’s features. If you have any questions, please feel free tocontactLIKE.TG’s supportteam.Please share your thoughts and experiences with different customer service strategies in the comments section. Your feedback is highly valued!

To deliver instant replies and smooth experiences, businesses need to harness technology that facilitates real-time engagement and communication. Live chat software is the key to achieving this.It has become a vital tool for businesses that creates direct access between the consumer and customer service for prompt resolution of issues and answers to questions.In this blog post, we’ll explore the essentials of live chat software and its functionality and introduce you to some of the top live chat solutions available today. What is live chat software?Live chat software is a tool that enables customers to have real-time, back-and-forth conversations with support agents for immediate assistance.It usually appears as a chat widget or pop-up on the bottom-right corner of a website, allowing users to initiate conversations with customer support and seek immediate assistance while browsing.Live chat software is commonly used for customer support, sales, or general communication on websites or within applications.How doeslive chatwork?Live chat facilitates instant support directly from a website or application. Live chat support appears as a small chat box or button, often labeled Chat Now or Help.By clicking on this chat widget, a customer opens a chat window, types their message, and sends it.This message is then relayed to the customer support team as a notification of the incoming chat and an agent can respond to the customer in the same chat window.This allows for a real-time, two-way conversation between the customer and the agent.Good live chat software may offer additional features, such as:Pre-chat forms: Forms collect customer information, like name and email, before the chat begins to contextualize the conversation and assist the agent in providing better support.Automated messages: An initial message informs customers of working hours or offers to take a message.Offline support: Allows customers to leave a message through the chat window in cases where live support isn’t available, so an agent can respond later via email.List of best live chat software and appsSelecting the best live chat software for your business can be challenging. We are providing an introduction to the best live chats for customer service to enable you to choose the one that best aligns with your specific business requirements.1. OlarkOlark provides tools for real-time communication that make it easier for small and medium-sized businesses to connect with their customers.Olark is an easy-to-use platform for engaging with website visitors.FeaturesUser-friendly interfaceIntegrationsAutomated chat routing and distributionTeam performance monitoringAutomated translationReal-time trackingPricingStarts at $29/user/monthFree trial: 14 days2. TidioTidio is a live chat app that allows e-commerce platforms and small businesses to talk to customers in real-time.It aims to provide businesses with tools for engaging customers and centrally managing messages across different channels.FeaturesCustomization optionsAI assist featuresIntegration with popular platformsAutomated responsesPricingFree plan available for 50 conversations/monthPaid plans start at $29/100 conversations/monthFree trial: 7 days3. ChatraChatra is live chat software for websites. It monitors visitors in real time and facilitates group chat even when you are offline.It enables businesses to answer customers’ questions, solve problems, and assist customers in making purchases.FeaturesOffline messagingCustomization optionsIntegrationsChat historyAutomation capabilitiesAnalytics and reportingPricingFree plan available for one agent.Paid plans start at $17/user/month.Free trial: 10 days4. UserlikeUserlike is live chat software with customizable chat widgets and smooth integrations. Businesses can interact with visitors on their websites in real time, providing immediate communication.Userlike lets companies adapt chat features according to their unique requirements and workflows.FeaturesCustomizable brandingIntegration optionsAutomated chat routingAuto translationCustomer feedbackPricingFree plan available for one agent.Paid plans start at $90/month/4 agents.Free trial: 14 days5. ChaportChaport is a live chat tool designed to be simple. It includes features like chat routing and proactive messaging to enable businesses to communicate with their website visitors in real time.This solution is suitable for small to medium-sized enterprises who are looking for an easy-to-implement live chat system.FeaturesUser-friendly interfaceAutomation capabilitiesIntegrationsReportingMultilingual supportCustomization optionsPricingFree plan available for two operators.Paid plans start at $29/4 operators/monthFree trial: 14 days6. LiveChatLiveChat provides a customer service platform that enables immediate connection with clients to resolve their inquiries.It allows for instant communication between businesses and customers, thereby enhancing customer support and interaction on websites.FeaturesCustomizationAutomated chat routingAdvanced reportingIntegrationPricingStarts at $20/1 user/monthFree trial: 14 days7. AcquireAcquire is a customer communication platform that allows businesses to interact with their audience through various channels for customer support.It includes live chat, video calls, and co-browsing features. Its goal is to enhance customer engagement by providing a comprehensive suite of tools for real-time interactions.FeaturesCo-browsing and screen sharingAutomated canned responsesAI assist featuresPrivate chat notesMultilingual capabilitiesReportingPricingStarts at $500/month plus $25/user/monthFree trial: Contact sales8. Zoho DeskZoho Desk, which is part of the Zoho suite, has a live chat tool that aims to minimize wait times and facilitate real-time assistance.The live chat tool comes with an AI-powered assistant that can answer basic questions using your knowledge base.FeaturesCustomization optionsAutomationFeedback formsIntegration capabilitiesChat routingReportingPricingStarts at $40/user/monthFree trial: 15 days9. LiveAgentLiveAgent is a multipurpose live chat software for communicating across various channels. It combines live chat, ticketing, and automation in a single platform for customer support and tracking of issues.With its real-time chat function, businesses can chat live with customers on their websites.FeaturesPersonalized chat invitationVisitor activity trackingCustomization optionsAnimated chat buttonsIntegrations with popular toolsAutomated chat distributionPricingStarts at $9/user/monthFree trial: 14 days10. SendPulseSendPulse’s live chat tool comes with a bunch of other features like chatbot integration, a built-in CRM, or a mobile app that helps manage your conversations on the go.SendPulse offers a chatbot builder that integrates with ChatGPT and works with Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram, and Viber.Features:Intuitive drag-and-drop builderCustomizable live chat windowSingle dashboard for multiple messengersDeals are automatically created in CRM (customer action triggered)Dedicated mobile appPricingPaid plan starts at $8 per month if paid annually.Free trial: 7 days.11. HubSpotHubSpot live chat is an integral part of its all-in-one marketing, sales, and customer service platform.The live chat tool facilitates communication by letting businesses interact with customers immediately.FeaturesCustomizationChat history for easy record-keepingIntegrations with Slack and HubSpot CRMAgent performance monitoringPricingFree plan available.Paid plan starts at $15/users/monthFree trial: 14 days12. ZendeskZendesk‘s live chat software is an essential component of its customer service platform, allowing businesses to communicate with customers.It can be integrated with other support tools and offers a user-friendly interface for engaging with website visitors in real time.FeaturesIntegrationsCustomization optionsAI and intelligent responsesChat tagsReportingPricingStarts at $55/user/monthFree trial: 30 days13. IntercomIntercom is a customer communication tool that offers live chat as one of its core features. It allows businesses to send customized messages based on customer information.Intercom also provides reporting tools so businesses can track the outcomes of their live chat interactions.FeaturesAutomated responsesIntegration optionsReporting and analyticsChat historyTeam performance monitoringPricingStarts at $39/agent/monthFree trial: 14 daysFeatures of live chat toolsBusinesses should consider the following key features when choosing a live chat solution.Real-time messagingThis is the core feature of live chat tools. It allows for instant communication between customers and customer support representatives. Customers can send messages, ask questions, and receive responses immediately.Real-time messaging tools include:Live typingAutomatic responsesLive translatingAutomated conversation solvingCollaboration toolsThese are features within the live chat platform that allow internal communication among customer support or sales teams to work together.They allow agents to discuss customer inquiries, share information, and collaborate on resolving issues when needed.These tools include:Group chatsTagsPrivate notesFile sharingPrivate messagingChat widgetsChat widgets are the interface for live chats that integrate into a company’s website or mobile app interface.They serve as an immediate touchpoint for visitors to ask questions, seek support, or engage with the business without navigating away from the page they are on.These widgets typically appear as a small icon or chat bubble in the corner of the screen, and when activated, expand into a chat interface where users can interact with a representative or an automated chatbot.Reports and analyticsThis feature provides businesses with valuable insight into their live chat performance. These tools generate data such as:Chat durationResponse timesNumber of chatsCustomer satisfaction scoresChat-to-conversion rateBy evaluating these reports and analytics, businesses can assess and improve the effectiveness of their customer service, identify areas for improvement and make informed business decisions.ChatbotsChatbots are AI-driven programs that chat live online with a customer whenever support agents are away or occupied.They simulate human conversations, independently handle repetitive and common inquiries and pass on more complicated requests to support agents. This helps businesses improve productivity and scale more efficiently.Canned responsesThese are prewritten messages that customer support agents use to respond quickly to common issues or frequently asked questions. Canned responses save time, ensure consistency and improve knowledge sharing for new support agents.Teams can create a library of predefined messages.IntegrationIntegration features in live chat tools allow seamless connectivity with other business software platforms and systems.They ensure that data is synchronized across various platforms, providing a unified view of customer interactionand improving workflow efficiency and productivity.Live chats are commonly integrated with the following:Customer relationship management (CRM) softwareHelp desk solutionsSocial media platformsE-commerce platformsQueue managementThis feature operates as a virtual waiting list that organizes chat requests based on predefined rules, such as first-come, first-served or priority levels, allowing customer service representatives to address issues in an orderly manner.Effective queue management provides customers with estimated wait times and the option to schedule a chat session if immediate support isn’t available.Chat transcriptsChat transcripts enable seamless tracking of customer interactions, ensuring continuity in service and personalized support.This archival tool enhances agent performance by providing immediate access to past conversations, facilitating informed responses and efficient resolution.It also serves as a valuable reference point for quality assurance and ongoing relationship management with clients.Advantages of integrating a live chat applicationModern consumers tend to have a low tolerance for delays and may abandon a transaction when an issue arises and support is not readily available.Integrating a live chat button within your website offers a convenient way for customers to seek help without having to switch apps.Following are some other benefits of integrating live chat applications.Increases efficiencyThe use of a live chat app allows customer service representatives to engage in several chat conversations at once, which is not possible with traditional communication like phone calls.As a result, more customer queries can be addressed in less time, improving the overall efficiency of the customer service process.Improves profitsA live chat lets you keep your customer service team smaller for longer, as one representative can handle multiple chats simultaneously. Offering online assistance lowers the rate of cart abandonment.Younger customers are increasingly more comfortable with online means of communication and expect quick answers. Live chat gives them that. This increases sales and revenue for a company.Builds long-term relationshipsBy providing prompt assistance, live chat can help establish lasting connections with customers. When customers know they can get efficient help instantly, they will want to come back.This can lead to repeat business and increased customer lifetime value. Moreover, the knowledge gained from chat records can be utilized to customize future interactions, thereby reinforcing these relationships even more.Helps improve customer serviceLive chat can provide in-depth reports on the types of customer support requests received, agent performance, and customer feedback, which can be useful in improving service quality and efficiency.Offers multichannel supportThe inclusion of live chat provides customers with an additional communication channel. It can be embedded within websites and other existing channels like social media and apps to allow customers to choose their preferred method of communication.Integrate live chat software today for instant customer communication!Successful businesses understand that immediate, smooth communication could be the factor that sets them apart from their rivals.Through enhancing engagement, satisfaction, and productivity, live chat has emerged as an indispensable element for enterprises.Find the live chat tool that best aligns with your business needs and budget and watch your customer relationships flourish.Our very own, LIKE.TG live chat software, will be launched very soon. Stay tuned and be the first to utilize our amazing top-grade live chat tool, with the latest features in the market!We hope that you found our blog post helpful. Please share your insights and experiences with different live chat tools in the comments section.Related articles The Best Customer Service Software for 202415 Best Issue-Tracking Software Systems for 202412 Best Knowledge Management Software Tools (2024)15 Best Free Tools for Startups in 2024

Customer service now involves more than just answering calls and emails. It’s about understanding each interaction and predicting what customers will need.Let’s say you work as a customer support manager and that each client interaction is an opportunity to strengthen your customer service.Using customer service analytics helps you understand your customers better and build stronger connections with them.This blog explores customer service analytics, focusing on getting to know the customer’s voice and any details to help provide great service. What is customer service analytics?Customer service analytics refers to the regular collection and analysis of customer data to get valuable insights about the overall customer service to enhance customer support.This process involves gathering data on customer interactions but also information on:Agents’ performanceTicket resolutionTicket response timeCustomer service analytics toolsCustomer experience satisfactionBusinesses can collect customer data from different sources such as message conversation history, transactions, and survey responses.Customer service analytics can help you understand support patterns, know your customers’ wants and preferences, and set business goals.Types of analytics in customer serviceCustomer service analytics can be divided into different categories, such as:Customer journey analyticsInvolves mapping out the various touchpoints and interactions that customers have with a company across different channels and stages of the customer lifecycle.This enables businesses to identify pain points, enhance connection, and improve the overall customer experience.Customer engagement analyticsInvolves analyzing interactions and behaviors through different channels such as social media, email, community forums, or insights obtained from surveys.This helps businesses to understand how customers interact with a brand and create engagement strategies and content to build stronger relationships.By measuring the key metrics businesses can evaluate the effectiveness of their engagement efforts and refine their strategies to better resonate with their target audience.Customer experience analyticsInvolves analyzing customer feedback, behavior, and interactions across multiple connections to understand their satisfaction levels, preferences, and pain points.This enables businesses to improve processes and deliver personalized experiences, thereby enhancing overall customer satisfaction and loyalty.Using insights from customer experience metrics, businesses can identify areas for improvement, tailor their products or services to meet customer needs, and ultimately drive growth through enhanced customer retention and advocacy.Customer retention analyticsIs a process that helps businesses understand why customers stop using their services or products.This process involves analyzing customer feedback, behavior, and interactions to identify the factors that influence customer churn.By using insights from customer retention analytics, businesses can proactively address customer concerns, improve customer experience, and build stronger connections with their customer base.Additionally, businesses can take corrective actions to keep important customers happy and retain them for longer periods.Customer support analytics use casesHow do you analyze customer service data? The following are a few instances of regular uses for customer service analytics:Monitor and analyze the customer journeyIdentify and track the customer journey maps throughout their interaction with your business across various touchpoints.This will help you understand their challenges, identify customer pain points, and improve service delivery for improved satisfaction and loyalty.Businesses can gain valuable insights into customer behavior through customer service analytics.This enables them to improve customer interaction, optimize resource utilization, and maximize agent effectiveness, ultimately leading to cost savings.Evaluate support staff work progressUsing customer service analytics helps businesses keep an eye on how well support agents perform on their tasks.By analyzing the support teamwork progress, managers can identify patterns, use resources well, and set up specific training to make customer support better.Improve in different areas of businessesBusinesses can analyze customer feedback by using customer service analytics to help them identify recurring support issues, and areas to improve, and know what their customers like or dislike.With such insight, these businesses can make the necessary improvements to suit customers’ needs better and prioritize development efforts to address the key concerns. This will enhance the overall customer service experience.Boost customer loyalty and retentionCustomer service analytics help your support teams find unhappy customers who might want to leave or lose trust and apply effective strategies for customer retention to prevent this.Businesses can proactively address customer needs, enhance satisfaction levels, and cultivate long-term relationships, by using insights gained from customer analytics service ultimately fostering loyalty and reducing customer churn.Enhance ticket prioritizationSentiment analysis and difficult issues should be the basis for ticket prioritization and tagging.Customer service analytics can assist businesses in identifying these factors, reducing the likelihood of SLA breaches and ticket escalations.Making better decisions based on the insightsBusinesses discover customers’ behaviors and preferences more deeply through consumer data analysis.The information from this data can assist businesses in making better decisions about product development, marketing campaigns, and service activities.Reduce customer service costs and increase revenueWith customer service analytics, businesses can identify important customers and collect more information on their opinions, suggestions, and purchasing patterns.The information helps businesses improve their products and marketing strategies to reach important customers, leading to more sales and profits.AI in customer service analyticsAccording to a Redixweb study, 83% of businesses worldwide claim that AI is crucial to their operational processes.AI in customer service analytics uses smart techniques to study customer data that can be used to make support better and keep customers happy.Sentiment analysis tools help businesses understand customers’ feelings and emotions, allowing them to address concerns better and improve their brand perception.Predictive analytics methods predict customer behavior, to enable proactive services and create interactions.Businesses can use AI analytics platforms to track customer service KPIs like response times, resolution rates, and customer satisfaction scores.Companies use this data to improve processes and enhance the customer experience.As a result of using AI in customer service analytics, businesses can streamline customer service processes with AI technologies by;Building long-term customer relationshipsEnhancing overall customer service performanceMonitoring customer service analytics helps businesses understand the value of customer support efforts and improve in those areas.Metrics you can use for client data analysisThe following are the metrics businesses can use to analyze customer service performance:1. Customer service metrics for maintaining customer experienceThese metrics are essential for businesses to measure and improve the quality of interactions between customers and the company.The KPIs for gauging customer service experience include:Customer satisfaction score (CSAT)The customer satisfaction score (CSAT) measures and checks how satisfied customers are you’re your service quality.It helps businesses build loyalty, keep customers, create their brand image, and reduce support costs.A Harvard study found that 80% of customer service businesses use customer satisfaction scores(CSAT) as their primary metric for measuring customer experience when they aim to exceed expectations.Customer effort score (CES)The customer effort score calculates how easy it is to use your products or services. Engage your clients by asking them, ‘How effortless was it for you to receive the assistance you desired today?It helps businesses gauge how easy or difficult it is for customers to interact with your company at different touchpoints.Lower scores indicate a smoother and more satisfactory experience for customers.Net promoter score (NPS)The net promoter score (NPS) is a metric used to measure customer loyalty and satisfaction based on their likelihood to recommend a company’s products or services to others.This helps businesses to know how loyal and satisfied customers are by sorting them into promoters, passives, or detractors.2. Customer service metrics for measuring customer journeyThis involves tracking and analyzing customer interactions and experiences across various channels throughout their journey with a company.Customer service metrics play a crucial role in understanding and improving the customer journey.Here are some of the KPIs for measuring customer journey analytics:Customer lifetime value (CLV)The customer lifetime value calculates the amount that every client adds to the company throughouttheir relationship.The data helps the company make strategic decisions about getting and keeping customers.It can also help customer service teams find important clients who need more help.Businesses can use data analysis to find what customers like and dislike, which helps them modify their customer service strategies and products to meet customer expectations and maintain happy customers.Customer retention rate (CRR)The customer retention rate (CRR) refers to the percentage of clients a company maintains over a specific period.It shows how effective it is at retaining customers and how well customer service works.A high CRR indicates successful customer retention, satisfaction, and loyalty, allowing organizations to identify areas for improvement.3. Customer service metrics for measuring customer performanceCustomer service metrics for performance are the main measures that businesses use to assess the productivity and efficiency of their customer service operations.With these metrics, businesses can analyze their progress over time, identify areas for development, and assess how effectively they are satisfying client demands and expectations.Here are the KPIs used to measure performance:First response timeThis shows how quickly and efficiently a company replies to a customer’s first question or problem.A quick and effective initial response indicates a responsive and customer-centric support system.This metric is critical in building customer trust and satisfaction, influencing overall perceptions of a company’s service quality.First contact resolution (FCR)First contact resolution measures the percentage of customer inquiries or issues that are resolved during the initial contact with customer service, without requiring additional follow-up.For example, if a customer calls with a product inquiry and the support agent successfully resolves the issue without needing the customer to call back, it counts as a first contact resolution.Average resolution time (ART)This metric measures the average time it takes for customer issues to be resolved.Businesses use it to provide insight into the efficiency of the support teams in addressing and resolving customer problems.For instance, if a customer calls with a billing issue, the Average resolution time would track the time it takes from the initial contact to resolution.Contact ticket volumeContact volume measures the total number of customer inquiries or issues received by the customer service team within a specific timeframe.It helps businesses to understand the total workload of tickets and the demand on the customer service department to make important decisions.4. Customer service metrics for measuring customer engagementCustomer engagement analytics measures and examines customer interactions with a business through multiple channels such as social media, website, email, and community forums.It contains monitoring customer engagement metrics to value the productivity of customer engagement programs.The KPIs for measuring customer engagement include.Social media analyticsBusinesses use various channels for customers to express their opinions and experiences. These platforms help companies to understand the overall sentiment of their brand.To gauge the effectiveness of social media marketing campaigns and identify trends in customer behavior, businesses analyze engagement metrics such as likes, shares, comments, and click-through rates on social media platforms.Website analyticsTracking metrics such as page views, time spent on the site, and conversion rates to understand how users interact with your website and optimize its performance.Customer support analyticsTracking metrics like response time, resolution rates, and customer feedback in customer support interactions to identify common issues, improve service quality, and enhance customer satisfaction.5. Customer service metrics for measuring customer retentionThis involves analyzing data and metrics related to customer behavior, interactions, and engagement to understand why customers stay with the company or why they leave the company.It aims to help businesses identify patterns and trends that require perfection and influence customer retention rates.The KPIs for measuring customer retention analytics contain:Customer churn rate (CCR)Customer churn rate (CCR), measures the percentage of customers who stop doing business with a company within a certain period.A high CCR suggests potential issues with customer satisfaction, service quality, or overall customer experience.Monitoring CCR allows businesses to identify pain points, address customer concerns, and improve service offerings to reduce customer attrition.Customer acquisition costCustomer acquisition cost is a metric that is used to measure the total cost incurred by a business to acquire a new customer, including expenses related to marketing, sales, and promotional activities.It helps businesses allocate marketing budgets effectively, optimize customer service ROI, and identify efficient marketing channels by measuring the cost incurred to acquire each new customer.Gain valuable insights with customer service analyticsWith client data analysis, businesses can gain important insights into the support they provide.They can look at data like customer interactions, ticket resolutions, how well agents perform, feedback from customers, and more.Deep research allows businesses to discover trends, patterns, and opportunities to improve their customer service operations.Additionally, customer insights can help you to understand what they prefer or need. You can also make their support experiences personal to efficiently meet changing demands.Managers must adopt customer service strategies that value customer intelligence and encourage support teams to use all helpful information to improve quality and make customers happier.Book a live demo to see how LIKE.TG will help your business collect insights from customers by using analytics in customer service to understand them better. Start a free trial to explore its many features.If you have any questions about the product and its capabilities feel free to contact the LIKE.TG support team.I hope this article was helpful to you. Do you have any suggestions on analyzing and obtaining customer service analytics you would like us to add?Please share your opinions and recommendations in the space provided for comments below.Related articles Customer Experience Strategy: How to Create and Improve It9 Effective Metrics to Measure Customer Loyalty

Have you ever said “sorry for the inconvenience” to an unhappy customer? We’ve all been in that situation in customer service. But saying sorry too often doesn’t really work. It sounds fake and may not save you from customer churn.Genuinely apologizing to the customer can turn a bad situation into a chance to make them happy and leave them with a good feeling.This blog explores some creative “sorry for the inconvenience” alternatives to express remorse, acknowledge frustration, and turn a bumpy experience into a satisfying interaction. Sorry for the inconvenience“Sorry for the inconvenience” is the most common expression used by businesses to apologize for customer service mishaps like poor service, product issues, billing errors, or miscommunication.By saying this, the business acknowledges not meeting customer expectations and expresses regret for any negative impact it may have had on the clients.The phrase has been overused to the point where it has lost the authenticity of its initial meaning.Why customers dislike the phrase “sorry for the inconvenience”Customers who take the time to contact a company after an unsatisfactory experience do so feeling frustrated and let down.They express their grievances and expect that the brand will take responsibility for the issue and mitigate their problem.Customer support teams that rely on statements such as “sorry for the inconvenience” may believe they are addressing the problem, but in reality, they can irritate customers.Customers dislike the phrase “sorry for the inconvenience” for several reasons.It lacks empathySaying “sorry for the inconvenience” feels distant and impersonal. It doesn’t acknowledge the specific situation the customer is facing or how it might affect them.The phrase can downplay the problemThe word “inconvenience” can undermine the seriousness of the problem.For example, a customer who has missed a flight or lost important data being told their situation is merely an inconvenience can feel dismissed and even insulted.“Sorry for the inconvenience’’ may sound insincereRepeatedly using the same generic “sorry for the inconvenience” phrase can come across as robotic and inauthentic.It can make customers feel like they’re just another number in the system rather than valued individuals. This makes it harder to build rapport and establish customer trust.The apology does not offer solutionsA good apology should do more than just express regret. It should also offer a solution or next step to rectify the situation.“Sorry for the inconvenience” by itself leaves the customer hanging, wondering what will happen next.Essential customer service tips for delivering effective apologiesApologizing when called for maintains healthy relationships.A study by Forbes found that an overwhelming 96% of customers claim they are unlikely to return to a business that has disappointed them.Therefore, it’s vital to formulate sincere apologies that calm angry customers, rebuild trust, and strengthen bonds.These are some essential tips to help you write an apology that is heartfelt, effective, and conducive to healing:Acknowledge and take ownership of the specific issue:Start by accepting responsibility for the mistake.Express genuine empathy: Use appropriate phrases that demonstrate to the customer that you understand how the issue might impact them.Personalize the message:Ensure you tailor your apology to include the customer’s name and address the specific issue at hand. Avoid using language that sounds robotic.Offer a solution or an alternative: Don’t leave the customer in the dark. Tell them what you’re going to do to fix the problem and make things right. If appropriate, reassure them that your company will do everything it can so such a mishap won’t reoccur in the future.Scenarios where you would need to use the phrase “sorry for the inconvenience’’It is common to encounter instances where you do not fully meet customer expectations in the course of running a business.During such times, extending a sincere apology can help alleviate customer irritation and address their concerns effectively.These are some situations in which using the “sorry for the inconvenience” phrase is necessary:Product or service issues: When a product or service fails to meet customer expectations, an apology should acknowledge the inconvenience and express the company’s commitment to quality.Delayed delivery: If an order arrives later than promised, an apology can help soothe the customer’s disappointment and maintain trust.Billing errors: Mistakes on invoices or erroneous charges can be distressing. An apology should demonstrate accountability and a willingness to rectify the issue.Poor customer service: Bad customer service experiences with unhelpful or rude staff can tarnish a company’s reputation. An apology can help rebuild customer relationships.Miscommunication: When there’s a breakdown in communication or misinformation is provided, an apology should be worded to help clarify and mend the situation.Technical glitches: Website crashes and system downtimes can hinder customers. An apology should acknowledge the inconvenience caused by these unforeseeable issues.Unexpected changes or cancellations: If events, services, or product availability change unexpectedly, an apology should be included in addressing any resulting inconvenience to the customer.Privacy breaches or security issues: In the event of a data breach or security lapse, an apology is a crucial first step in addressing customer concerns and restoring confidence.Alternatives for “Sorry for the inconvenience”There are several ways to own up to mistakes and apologize to customers that can serve as better “sorry for the inconvenience” alternative phrases.Outstanding alternatives for “Sorry for the inconvenience” phrasePlease accept my sincere apologiesOops, our bad! We’re working to fix things and make it up to youWe regret any disruption this may have causedWe’re sorry we failed to meet our own high standards this timeYour patience during this inconvenience is greatly appreciatedWe’re committed to ensuring this doesn’t happen againI realize this is disappointingLet us help you resolve this issue as quickly as possiblePlease let us know if there is anything else we can doThank you for bearing with us during this timeWe’re sorry for your bad experience and would like to offer you a discount on your next orderLet’s take a look at some common alternatives:Please accept my sincere apologiesWhenever a customer service mistake occurs, it is extremely important that it is apologized for, and that the statement acknowledges the gravity of the mistake.Example:Dear [Recipient’s name],I am writing to express my regret for [briefly state issue]. Please accept my sincere apologies for the inconvenience caused.Rest assured, measures have been taken to fix [the issue] and prevent a recurrence.Thank you for your understanding.Warm regards,[Your name]Oops, our bad! We’re working to fix things and make it up to youThis phrase is perfect if you’re searching for a casual yet sincere apology with a commitment to rectify the situation.It is typically appropriate for minor issues and with a customer base that appreciates a more informal tone.Here is a working example:Dear [Customer name],We’ve noticed that you struggled to access [Service/Product Name] earlier today. Oops, our bad! We’re working to fix things and make it up to you.We wanted to reach out and let you know that this isn’t the experience we aim to provide.Our [mention team] is on it, and the [service name] will return shortly.We truly appreciate your patience.Warm regards,[Your name]We regret any disruption this may have causedThis “sorry for the inconvenience” alternative expression is a formal way of expressing regret for any trouble resulting from unforeseen circumstances, including service interruptions, product recalls, or a change in policy that affects customers.It lets the customers know that you genuinely didn’t intend to disrupt their experience and may help emphasize that the issue was unexpected or the change was unavoidable.Following is an instance of how this phrase can be used in context.Dear customers,We acknowledge the recent issue with our online platform on [Date], which resulted in several hours of unexpected downtime.I fully understand that you rely on our services for your daily activities, and we regret any disruption this may have caused.We have resolved the issue and implemented additional measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.Thank you for your understanding.Sincerely,[Your company]We’re sorry we failed to meet our own high standards this timeThis expresses remorse and takes responsibility for what is usually a service issue. It also emphasizes that the company’s usual level of service is much higher than what the customer experienced.It implies that the company shares in the customer’s feeling of disappointment and doesn’t find it acceptable.The expression can be a starting point for a conversation about how the company can best rectify the situation and restore the customer’s confidence.Following is an example of how this phrase can be used.Dear [Customer name],We received your message communicating your issue with [briefly describe the issue]. We’re sorry we failed to meet our own high standards this time.We understand the impact this may have had and are taking immediate steps to ensure it does not happen again.To make amends, we would like to offer [whatever is applicable].Your satisfaction is our priority. Please contact us again if you experience further problems.Best regards,[Your Name]Your patience during this inconvenience is greatly appreciatedThis phrase is a polite way to acknowledge a customer’s understanding and endurance as you strive to resolve an issue affecting them.Since this “sorry for the inconvenience” alternative phrase is quite passive, it is ideal in contexts where:You have already acknowledged the problemThe inconvenience is minor or temporaryThe customer is already aware of the steps you are taking to alleviate the situationHere’s an ideal instance for using this phrase:Dear [Customer name],We apologize for the slight delay in the shipment of your order [Order details].Due to unexpected high demand, your package will arrive within 5 business days instead of the usual 3.Your patience during this inconvenience is greatly appreciated.Sincerely,[Your name]We’re committed to ensuring this doesn’t happen againThis is the perfect “sorry for the inconvenience” alternative phrase to use whenever you identify a mistake or issue that negatively affected customers, and you want to apologize while also assuring customers that steps are being taken to prevent a recurrence.However, it is best used when you have already addressed the immediate issue and have tangible steps in place to prevent repetition.Following is how this phrase can be used in context.Dear [Customer name],We are deeply sorry to learn that our latest [specific software] update resulted in unexpected issues for you.We understand the frustration and inconvenience this has caused and take full responsibility for the oversight.We are implementing additional quality assurance processes to ensure our updates undergo more rigorous testing before release.We’re committed to ensuring this doesn’t happen again. Please let us know if you encounter any more problems.Sincerely,The [Company name] TeamI realize this is disappointingThis “sorry for the inconvenience” alternative expression shows empathy and demonstrates that you prioritize customer experiences rather than solely focusing on sales.Here is an example:Dear [Recipient’s name],I would like to sincerely apologize for [briefly state the issue]. I realize this is disappointing, and I deeply regret any inconvenience caused.We are working diligently to [mention any remedial action being taken]and ensure the issue never reoccurs.I appreciate your understanding and patience as we resolve this matter.Sincerely,[Your name]Let us help you resolve this issue as quickly as possibleThis “sorry for the inconvenience” alternative phrase demonstrates a proactive stance in addressing customer concerns. It shows that you value the customer’s time and that you are committed to providing a quick resolution.This level of responsiveness can help to restore customer trust and loyalty, even in the face of challenges.Following is how this phrase can be used in context.Dear [Customer name],We are sorry to hear about the difficulties you’ve been experiencing with our [product name].Let us help you resolve this issue as quickly as possible. Our technical team is ready to assist you.Can you please walk us through the issue you are facing in a reply to this email or provide us with a phone number and the best time to contact you?We value your patience and trust in us and are committed to ensuring that your experience with our product meets your expectations.Kind regards,[Your name]Please let us know if there is anything else we can doThis phrase is ideal for demonstrating your willingness to go the extra mile to rectify a situation. It is best used at the end of an apology ascustomer follow up and demonstrate your commitment to quality service.Dear [Customer name],We sincerely apologize for [Mention issue details]. We understand how important it is for you to access [Mention service/product], and we regret any inconvenience this has caused you.Rest assured that we are taking immediate steps to ensure the [Mention the issue] is resolved.We truly value your business, and your satisfaction is our top priority. Please let us know if there is anything else we can do to assist you further.Best regards,[Your name]Thank you for bearing with us during this timeThis sorry for the inconvenience alternative phrase is used to appreciate customers for their understanding while you worked to resolve the customer service disruption. It can be used as a follow up message after successful service recovery efforts.Following is an instance of how this phrase can be used in context.Dear valued customers, we wanted to reach out and apologize for the recent disruption in our online services.Due to technical difficulties that were beyond our control, many of you experienced interruptions when trying to access [Mention service details].We regret any inconvenience or concern this disruption may have caused. Our team has worked diligently to resolve the issue, and we are pleased to report that our services are now fully operational.Thank you for bearing with us during this time.If you have any further concerns or need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact [customer support team details].Sincerely,[Company name]We’re sorry for your bad experience and would like to offer you a discount on your next orderThis alternative not only acknowledges the inconvenience the customer has faced but also extends a gesture of goodwill to compensate for their negative experience.By offering a discount on the next order, you provide a tangible benefit that can help restore the customer’s trust and encourage future business.This approach shows empathy, takes responsibility, and proactively seeks to make amends, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.Here is an example:Dear [Customer’s name],We’re sorry for your bad experience and would like to offer you a discount on your next order as a token of our appreciation for your patience and understanding.We understand how frustrating it can be when things don’t go as expected, and we are committed to making things right. Please accept this discount code [DISCOUNT CODE] for [X]% off your next purchase with us. Simply enter the code at checkout to redeem your discount.Thank you for giving us the opportunity to make it up to you. We value your business and hope to serve you better in the future.Warm regards,[Your name]Utilize effective substitutes to the “sorry for the inconvenience” phraseCustomer service issues are unavoidable in any business, but they are not the end of the world. What really matters to the customer is how you recover from these setbacks and demonstrate your commitment to their satisfaction.A simple “sorry for the inconvenience” may not be enough to convey your sincerity, and you may risk losing your customers’ trust.We hope this blog enriches your toolbox of recovery strategies to build more resilient and rewarding customer relationships. Remember, it’s not just about saying you’re sorry; it’s about showing you mean it and that your brand stands beside its customers even when things go wrong.LIKE.TG empowers support teams to engage in efficient communication with their customers. Reach out to us to arrange a live demo and experience how our features can enable you to swiftly navigate through service issues and enhance your customer connections. Or, sign up for our15-day free trialto unlock instant access.Do you have any other alternatives to “sorry for the inconvenience”? Please share them in the comments section below.Recommended reads10 Best Templates to Write Apology Emails to Customers9 Great Alternatives to “Happy to Help”Customer Thank You Notes: Examples and Tips45 Exceptional Customer Service Phrases (+14 You Should Avoid)

We are excited to announce the latest feature updates in our March release! The LIKE.TG team is committed to empowering you with the right tools to provide exceptional customer service.The March product release introduces a set of new features and improvements that result from invaluable user feedback and the most recent developments in customer service.Let’s explore LIKE.TG’s latest features!GeneralWe’ve made some general updates to our customer service software to make it work better and be easier to use.Dark theme option in the agent portalAgents can now experience a smooth dark theme for the agent portal! This option offers a visually appealing interface that’s perfect for agents who prefer a darker screen environment.An improved design of the agent portalWe’re thrilled to unveil a sleek, updated design of our agent portal that’s not just pleasing to the eye, but also crafted to enhance your productivity.Admins can unleash their creativity and tailor the look and feel of their portal with an expanded palette of color customization options.You can customize the visual elements of your agent portal to match your brand’s identity with ease.Artificial IntelligenceThe following new feature has been added to BoldDesk.AI Copilot for agentsAn AI Copilot has been implemented to support agents with ticket responses.With just the click of a button, agents can pose questions to our AI assistant and instantly receive accurate, tailored responses drawn from our extensive knowledge base.This cutting-edge feature is designed to streamline agents’ workflow, enabling them to deliver faster and more precise support.Ticketing system featuresThe following features have been implemented in the ticketing system.Play audio files directly within ticketsA new in-ticket audio player allows you to listen to audio attachments with just a click, right from the ticket page.You no longer have to download audio files attached to tickets to listen to them. This new feature lets agents save time when delivering customer support.When integrating a voice note message from another system using the REST API, the audio file will render using the browser’s default audio player if it is in the proper format.Additional fields in the advanced ticket filterNew fields have been added in the worklog advanced filter to allow users to track and analyze metrics on the total logged hours and billable hours.For example, to search for tickets that do not have a worklog, you can use the filter Total Hours Logged set to Is empty.Bulk restoration of deleted ticketsYou can easily select and restore multiple soft-deleted tickets in one go to save time.Copy a ticket messageWith just a simple click, you can duplicate any ticket message and share it across your favorite apps.Whether you’re coordinating with your team, updating stakeholders, or just keeping records, this new feature is designed to make your communication flow as smooth as silk.IntegrationsNew integrations have been implemented in LIKE.TG to ensure you have an interconnected system that maximizes efficiency and boosts your team’s performance.Mailchimp integrationUsers can now integrate LIKE.TG with Mailchimp. Installing and configuring MailChimp enables users to perform the following actions directly from LIKE.TG:View all campaign detailsManage mailing listsAdd or remove subscribers from Mailchimp audience listsMicrosoft Entra ID (Azure AD) integrationLIKE.TG also integrates with Microsoft Entra ID. This update allows users to create and synchronize user accounts directly from BoldDesk.The following are key capabilities of this new integration:Add and synchronize users as both contacts and agentsQuickly create user accounts in LIKE.TGInstantly remove user accessMaintain synchronized user attributes between Microsoft Entra ID and LIKE.TGCreate LIKE.TG tickets from Microsoft TeamsWith our Microsoft Teams integration, users can now create support tickets without ever leaving the Teams environment.Knowledge baseOur knowledge base softwarehas been enriched with the following features.Brand-based filter support for deleted articlesA new brand-based filter allows you to filter deleted knowledge base articles by brand.This update will help users locate the information they need quickly without having to browse through unnecessary content.Insert language-specific articles in ticket repliesAgents can specify the language when inserting knowledge base articles in ticket replies. You can cater to your global audience by delivering solutions in their preferred language.Mobile applicationWith the LIKE.TG mobile application, you’re always just a tap away from being able to provide support and receive updates on your tickets.The following suite of new features can help you provide support on the move.Explore the requester’s profile and view their ticketsThis new feature allows agents to view a requester’s full profile and their ticket history quickly, without having to toggle between screens or wait until they’re back at their desk.This enables agents to provide tailored assistance with a more complete picture of the customers’ needs.Create views in activitiesThe customized filter configurations you frequently use on the LIKE.TG Activity page have been integrated into the mobile app.You can create, save, and apply your preferred filter combinations, ensuring that the most relevant tasks and updates are always at your fingertips.Include the activity status when adding commentsA new feature has been rolled out to let you change your activity status while engaging in discussions.AutomationUnlock a new level of productivity, efficiency, and speed with our latest update to LIKE.TG automations.Add activity from automation ruleYou can specify a task type if certain conditions are met in the Create and Update trigger automation.EmailEmail remains an indispensable tool for connecting with clients and colleagues. The following feature has been added to LIKE.TG’s email system.IMAP supportIMAP support has been fully integrated into our platform to let you smoothly synchronize your personal email address with LIKE.TG tickets for a more unified communication experience.This will help cut down on needing to switch between inboxes or missing out on important email threads.Activity moduleThe following improvements have been made in the activity module.Update a ticket status while replying to commentsAn option has been provided to allow you to update a ticket’s status while engaging with comments directly within the activity module.The last selected activity-type filter remains selectedOur system intelligently remembers your last selected activity-type filter, keeping it conveniently in place for your next session.This means you can pick up right where you left off, saving time and maintaining your workflow.Turn off permissions for certain rolesYou can easily configure permissions for different roles, ensuring that each team member has exactly the right level of access they need to perform their tasks efficiently and securely.Approval moduleThe following updates have been added to the approval module.View all approval requestsAn All Approvals option has been introduced in the approval module.No more scrolling through approvals one by one. This enhancement lets you preview all your approvals in a single view to save time.You can also toggle the approval module’s visibility to suit your needs and that dictate who gets to see the entire list of approvals.Reports and analyticsLIKE.TG’s reporting and analytics dashboards deliver detailed insight into individual agent and collective team performance, overall help desk effectiveness, and customer satisfaction.We have made several improvements to this module.General improvementsA multi-select option is available for agents and groups in the agent performance report.The customer satisfaction report includes a new field for Rated by to let you know who gave the rating.The contact performance dashboard supports grouping by the category field.The Ticket ID field has been added to the advanced search in the report module.New fields, contact tags, and contact group tags have been included in the advanced filter.Hyperlink support has been added to the ticket export function.We’ve updated the SLA stats widget logic for SLA Achieved tickets, counting achievements and breaches differently.The worklog report has a new Group by field for Ticket/Activity linked tickets.A new column called Total Tickets has been included in the widget for SLA achieved versus breached tickets on the SLA dashboard.All reports adhere to ticket access scope and brand-level data restrictions.The export option is available for all tables.Time format updates across all reportsTime format adjustments have been made for time fields in all reports.When users export reports to Excel, the date-time fields now adhere to the time zones specified in their profile.Home page updatesThe LIKE.TG home page has been modernized with the addition of the following new features.Retention of the previously selected columns in grid viewIt can be annoying having to repeatedly select the same columns every time you use the column chooser.With our new smart retention feature, your last selected columns will remain selected so you can dive back into your work each time you return to the page.Search private note messagesOur all-new Private Message filter lets you search for content in private notes. You can even narrow down the search further to a specific brand, category, or status of the private message.Admin module updatesThe admin module has been updated to improve the user experience further.Additional configuration options in the worklog settingsMore configuration options are available in the worklog settings. Administrators have more control options to help manage customer support teams.They can:Make it mandatory for agents to update the time spent when adding replies or notesMake it mandatory for agents to add a description whenever they add or edit a worklogSet the default worklog type as either billable or nonbillableEnhanced control over closed ticket actionsAdministrators can customize and automate the response to end-user interactions in closed tickets, whether it’s through email or the customer portal.You can set up your system to reopen tickets automatically, instruct the end user to create a new follow-up ticket, or not change the status at all when a customer reaches out on a previously closed issue.This automation ensures no customer query goes unnoticed, even if it was previously considered resolved.Support for IP restrictions in both the agent and customer portalsSecurity is always our priority at BoldDesk. Our new IP restriction feature empowers you to implement an additional layer of security around your agent or customer portal by specifying exactly which IP addresses and ranges are granted access.This new feature helps protect valuable data and elevate your peace of mind.Edit the profiles of deactivated agentsPreviously, the profiles of deactivated agents were locked in time and could not be edited. Administrators can now update and edit the profiles of deactivated agents at their convenience.This allows them to keep all agent information up-to-date and accurate, ensuring your records are always current, even for past team members.Support for the traditional Chinese languageWe believe that language barriers should never be a hurdle to delivering good customer service.LIKE.TG now supports the traditional Chinese language to help you cater to an even larger customer base. The total number of supported languages in LIKE.TG is now 27.Importing agents and groupsIn addition to importing information for contacts and contact groups, administrators can now import data for agents or agent groups from an Excel file.Whether you’re looking to onboard a new batch of agents or update existing group data, this new feature will save you time and minimize errors.What’s coming next?This release has been a great one, but we have more on the way!Soon, we will launch the following features. Take a look at this roadmap,A live chat moduleWhatsApp IntegrationFacebook integrationExotel integrationIs there a feature you’d love to see? Request it here!Explore these new feature updates!We are confident that these latest features will empower your support teams to consistently deliver top-notch customer experiences.Get in touch with usto set up a30-minutelive demoto try out these new features and experience firsthand howLIKE.TGcan be customized to fit your unique needs and workflows. Or sign up for a 15-dayfree trialtoday.Previous releasesLIKE.TG Release: December 2023 New Features Update!LIKE.TG Release: November 2023 New Features Update!LIKE.TG Release Announcement: September 2023 New Features Update!

We’re thrilled to announce that LIKE.TG has been recognized for its exceptional customer service software by winning several prestigious G2 badges in the Winter 2024 Grid® Report for Help Desk Software!This recognition from a trusted source like G2 is proof of our ongoing commitment to empowering businesses to deliver the best customer service possible and providing exceptional value to our users. About G2G2 is a prominent platform for software and service reviews. It helps businesses and users find the best software solutions based on peer reviews and ratings.It provides insight into various products and services across different categories, helping users make informed decisions.The platform features current, unbiased reviews, comparisons, and detailed information about software, making it a valuable resource for those seeking reliable feedback before purchasing or adopting new tools.Users can explore G2’s extensive database to assess the performance, features, and user satisfaction of various products and services.Take a look at the recognitions we’ve received from G2LIKE.TG has been showered with love from our users, helping us achieve several G2 badges in the Winter 2024 rankings:G2 Leader: LIKE.TG has been ranked as a Leader in the Grid® Report for Help Desk Software Winter 2024. Receiving this badge places us among the top-rated help desk solutions in the industry, based on real user feedback and market share data.G2 High Performer: Being named a High Performer in the EMEA Regional Grid Report for Help Desk Winter 2024 is a testament to users’ satisfaction with LIKE.TG as their customer support solution.G2 Users Love Us: This prestigious badge signifies that LIKE.TG has consistently received high ratings on G2 from customers. It validates our efforts to create a product that helps businesses build precisely the help desk solution they need.What makes LIKE.TG a leader?We believe our success stems from a combination of factors:User-focused design: LIKE.TG offers a simple and intuitive interface that lets users of all technical backgrounds create, manage, and utilize the platform effectively.Comprehensive features: From a robust ticketing system, to powerful knowledge base functionalities, to seamless integrations, help desk automation, and advanced reporting tools, LIKE.TG provides a comprehensive suite to streamline your customer support operations.Exceptional customer service: Our dedicated support team is passionate about helping you succeed. We offer responsive support and valuable resources to ensure you get the most out of BoldDesk.A heartfelt thank you!We are incredibly grateful for the reviews shared on G2. Our amazing users provide invaluable feedback, making these awards possible and guiding what we do next in BoldDesk.These G2 awards serve as a powerful incentive for us, and your validation is a profound source of encouragement.Ready to join the LIKE.TG community?Start your free trialtoday and experience how LIKE.TG can help you streamline your help desk operations, empower your support team, and ultimately delight your customers!You can also book a live demo to see the transformative impact LIKE.TG can have on your customer support. If you have any inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re eager to connect with you.

Navigating the range of help desk software options can be overwhelming when picking the best fit for your company.Help Scout is a popular solution, with features like ticket management, knowledge base integration, and automation tools.However, like any software, it has limitations that may not suit your needs.In this blog, we explore the top alternatives to Help Scout, exploring their features, pricing, and user experiences to aid your decision-making process.Let’s get started on the journey of discovery to find all the perfect Help Scout alternatives help desk solutions for your business. Top 11 Help Scout alternativesThe following are the best Help Scout customer service software alternatives that you need to choose:LIKE.TGLIKE.TG stands out as a comprehensive customer service solution for businesses looking to improve their overall customer experience, support workflows, and productivity.As one of the Help Scout alternatives, it offers numerous help desk features including knowledge base software, AI assist features, and task prioritization.Significantly, it offers affordable and transparent pricing plans, with a free plan for individuals and pricing tiers to suit businesses of different sizes.LIKE.TG’s wide range of support features helps businesses to:Manage support requestsImprove collaboration within their support teamsCommunicate with clients betterAutomate repetitive tasksIt allows easy customization to match your branding and simple integration with your preferred tools and apps which makes it a better solution for alternatives to Help Scout.Schedule alive demo or start afree trial to experience LIKE.TG many capabilities for yourself. If you have any questions, feel free to contact the LIKE.TG support team.Key featuresAI Copilot: AI assist features that help analyze tickets, generate responses, summarize lengthy ticket conversations, and translate emails written in other languages.Robust ticketing software: Automatically turn support emails into tickets and have them routed round-robin to agents or according to the parameters you set.Customer portal: Allow customers to create and follow up on their inquiries with an easy-to-use interface.Automation: Customize your workflow by automating repetitive tasks like ticket routing and tagging, status updating, and sending notifications and feedback surveys.Excellent mobile application: Let your agents receive important notifications and send replies to customers from anywhere with LIKE.TG in their pockets.Knowledge base software: Organize and share information in external and internal repositories, complete with a powerful search function to assist users in finding answers quickly.Smooth integration: Integrate LIKE.TG easily with various popular tools and applications that you already utilize.Extensive customization options: Tailor your support desk to your company’s specific needs and look.Top-notchsecurity and compliance: LIKE.TG highly values the security and privacy of sensitive consumer data, complying with all common standards and regulations.Insightful reports and analytics: Monitor support desk metrics to help you make informed decisions.Multilingual support: Present articles, messages, and the customer portal in the languages customers prefer.Efficient task management: Break complicated tasks into a series of smaller tasks and manage them easily with LIKE.TG’s task management tools.Customer satisfaction surveys offer insight into how to enhance your services and better fulfill the expectations of your customers.LIKE.TG advantages Enables an instant support response, ensuring that users obtain fast help and solutions to their questions or issues.LIKE.TG offers seamless automation that simplifies repetitive operations, saving users time and allowing agents to focus on more complicated concerns.It has an intuitive user interface, allowing for an easier transition for support teams.Provides affordable and flexible pricing plans.Ensures smooth integration with third parties.LIKE.TG pricing plans Agent-Based plans:Scale: $25 for 3 agents/monthGrowth: $50 for 3 agents/monthEnterprise: $75 for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential: $799 per monthPro: $1499 per monthBusiness: Contact usFree trial: 15 daysUnlimited AgentsHow many agents do you have? Pro$1499Flat Fee / Month Billed AnnuallyTry for freeUnlimited Agents VS 1001000 Plus $4000 Per MonthBilled Annually100 AgentsHelpwiseHelpwise enables simple communication via email for small businesses and has functionality like workflow automation, built-in chat, and analytics.It serves as one of the alternatives to Help Scout that lets you manage sales and operations teams.Key featuresCollaboration toolsAutomationAnalyticsFile managementHelpwise pricing planStandard: $12/agent/monthPremium: $23/agent/monthAdvanced: $39/month/ userFree trial: 7 daysFrontFront is one of the alternatives to Help Scout allowing support teams to respond to emails, social media communications, and SMS through a centralized hub and deliver support at scale.Key featuresWorkflow automationKnowledge base softwareLive chatOmnichannel communicationFront pricing plan Starter: $19/user/monthGrowth: $59/user/monthScale: $99/user/monthPremier: $229/user/monthFree trial: 14 daysProProfsProProfs is a Help Scout competitor help desk that supports ticketing and allows support teams to manage all their emails in one place using a shared inbox.Key features Multichannel supportHelp desk automationTicket managementReportsSurvey makerPricing plan Single User: freeTeam: $19.99/operator/monthSupport Suite: starts at $99/monthFree trial: 15 daysKayakoKayako is a customer service program that provides help desk and live chat software to businesses.This Help Scout competitor provides tools for handling customer issues from various channels.Key featuresCollaboration toolsLive chatSelf-serviceIntegrationsKayako pricing details Starting at $125/agent/monthFree trial: 14 daysHiverHiver transforms Gmail into a collaborative customer support hub. This Help Scout competitor lets businesses handle shared inboxes, allocate tasks, and monitor performance metrics.Key featuresEmail managementAutomationCollaborationAnalyticsIntegrationsHiver pricing planLite: $15/agent/monthPro: $49/agent/monthElite: $79/agent/monthFree trial: 7 daysIntercomIntercom is a Helps Scout competitor platform that offers real-time interactions, online customer support, and customer engagement techniques.Key features Email marketingIntegrationsLive chatAutomated messagesIntercom pricing detailsEssential: $39/monthAdvanced: $99/monthExpert: $139/monthFree trial: 14 daysZoho DeskZoho Desk is all-in-one customer service software that lets businesses deliver customer support across multiple channels.Zoho Desk is one of the alternatives to Help Scout, which provides businesses with automation and advanced reporting capabilities.Key featuresCustomizationTicket managementOmnichannelAutomationAnalyticsZoho Desk pricing planStandard: $14/user/monthProfessional: $23/user/monthEnterprise: $35/user/monthFree trial: 15 daysFreshdeskFreshdesk is a cloud-based service platform that allows organizations to handle client queries and support requests via several channels, providing other customer support software solutions.Being one of the alternatives to Help Scout, it offers automation tools for managing tickets, integration with third-party apps, and multi-language support.Key featuresTicket managementZia AI assistSelf-serviceAgent productivityCustomizationFreshdesk pricing detailsGrowth: $15/agent/monthPro: $49/agent/monthEnterprise: $79/agent/monthFree trial: 14 daysHubSpotThe HubSpot Service Hub is a Help Scout competitor that incorporates knowledge base software, review polls, and a reporting platform.Key features TicketingKnowledge base softwareLive chatOmnichannel messagingTeam emailHubSpot pricing planStarter: $15/seat/monthProfessional: $450/3 seats/monthEnterprise: $1,200/5 seats/monthFree trial: 14 daysZendeskZendesk is help desk software with advanced analytics features that lets teams manage support tickets in a central hub. This is one of the alternatives to Help Scout.Key features Security and complianceMessagingTicketingAutomationIntegrationZendesk pricing detailsSupport Team: $19/agent/monthSuite Team: $49/user/agentSupport Professional: $55/agent/monthGrowth: $79/agent/monthProfessional: $99/agent/monthSupport Enterprise: $119/agent/monthFree trial: 14 daysHelp Scout alternatives comparison tableHelp Scout alternativesMajor featuresPriceLIKE.TGRobust ticketing systemCustomer PortalKnowledge base softwareAutomationMobile applicationCustomer satisfaction surveysEfficient task managementAI-enhanced supportMultilingual supportReports and analyticsTop-notchsecurity and complianceExtensive customization optionsMultiple integrationsPlans start at $10 for 3 agents/monthFree trial: 15 daysHelpwiseCollaboration toolsAutomationAnalyticsFile managementPlans start at $12/agent/monthFree trial: 7 days FrontWorkflow automationKnowledge base softwareLive chatOmnichannel inboxPlans start at $19/user/monthFree trial: 14 daysProProfsCustomer supportMultichannel supportHelp desk automationTicket managementPlans start at $19.99/user/monthFree trial: 15 daysKayakoCollaboration toolsLive chatSelf-serviceIntegrationsPlans start at $125/monthFree trial: 14 daysHiverEmail managementAutomationCollaboration toolsAnalyticsIntegrationsPlans start at $15/user/monthFree trial: 7 daysIntercomEmail marketingIntegrationsLive chatAutomated messagesPlans start at $39/monthFree trial: 14 days Zoho DeskCustomizationTicket managementOmnichannel supportAutomationTicketingAnalyticsPlans start at $14/agent/monthFree trial: 15 daysFreshdeskCollaboration toolsOmnichannel supportAutomationTicketingAnalyticsPlans start at $15/user/monthFree trial: 14 daysHubSpotTicketingKnowledge base softwareLive chatOmnichannel messagingTeam emailPlans start at $15/seat/monthFree trial: 14 daysZendeskSecurity and complianceMessagingTicketingAutomationIntegrationsPlans start at $19/user/agentFree trial:14 daysConsiderations for selecting the right Help Scout alternativeIf you’re looking for the best option for your organization, you should thoroughly examine the advantages and disadvantages of each of the Help Scout alternatives.Affordable pricing plan: Every cent counts for all business sizes. Look for help desks that give youthe most value for your investment with flexible pricing to ensure you’re paying for the features you want.Robust ticketing system: Choose a help desk ticketing system that centralizes customer interactions and speeds up your team’s work with automation.Multichannel service: Customer support software should allow your customers to contact you through the channel they prefer, including email, social media, and chat, but combine these channels on the agent side so that all customer communications are accessible in one place.Customization: Assess the level of customization available with each alternatives to Help Scout. Determine if you can modify the software to match your unique workflows, branding guidelines, and customer communication preferences.Good customer review: Look for help desk providers with great reviews on third-party sites. They often discuss benefits and disadvantages you may not have considered.Suitable integrations: A platform’s value is frequently found in its compatibility with other customer success products that your customer support agents utilize. Choose a solution that can easily integrate with your existing software.ConclusionWhen looking for alternatives to Help Scout, try to find help desk features that deliver exceptional customer service while also increasing your team’s productivity.The software should include an intuitive interface and a central service dashboard, allowing your employees to interact and share relevant information. It must be simple to use and affordable.In our opinion, and the opinions of our customers, LIKE.TG offers all these characteristics. It will help you conduct effective customer support, generate inquiries, conduct surveys, and collect feedback. Try it for yourself or sign up for a free demo to see how it could improve your support system.If you found this article interesting, please share your opinion and recommendations in the comments section below.Related articles 10 Best Freshdesk Alternatives for Businesses in 202416 Best Zendesk Alternatives for Businesses in 2024Top 10 Free Help Desk Software and Ticketing Systems in 2024

Are you looking for a way to improve your customer service? Zoho Desk is a tool that helps businesses handle customer inquiries. However, it might not be the perfect fit for everyone since different businesses have different needs, like specific features, pricing, and ease of use.The good news is, there are lots of other options similar to Zoho Desk that might suit you better.This blog explores some of these top Zoho Desk alternatives, ideal for businesses in search of the right fit for their customer service needs. Top Zoho Desk alternativesWhen choosing the best customer engagement tool for your business, these Zoho Desk alternatives stand out in the market.LIKE.TGLIKE.TG is the best Zoho Desk alternative that provides advanced customer support and engagement tools to assist agents in managing help requests.It is designed to streamline customer interactions across multiple channels and increase overall customer satisfaction.If you’re searching for a help desk ticketing service that is user-friendly, comprehensive and offers powerful customization options. We strongly endorse LIKE.TG as your preferred alternative to Zoho Desk.LIKE.TG ticketing softwarePlus, the platform is budget-friendly for small and growing businesses to help them deliver the best support experiences possible to their customers without breaking the bank.Top features AI Copilot assist feature allows companies to enhance ticket handling, write better responses, and generate better knowledge-based articles.Robust ticketing software allows efficient customer issue tracking, agent assignment, and progress monitoring.Extensive customization enables businesses to design the system to their specific requirements and workflows. You can customize ticket fields, automation rules, and more.A user-friendly customer portal provides a central place for customers to submit tickets, track their progress, and access helpful resources.Efficient help desk automation helps take care of repetitive tasks like sending email notifications, escalating tickets, and agent assignments based on keywords.Knowledge-based software empowers agents to build a repository of helpful articles, FAQs, and other documentation that customers can use to solve common issues.Seamless integration allows LIKE.TG to connect with other tools and systems you use, like CRM software, billing systems, and communication platforms.Task management features assist agents in organizing and prioritizing their work, setting deadlines, and collaborating on complex issues. Effective task management ensures efficient ticket resolution and keeps the support team organized.Multilingual support lets companies assist a diverse customer base by offering resources in multiple languages.A mobile app that enables agents to manage tickets and provide support on the go, boosting agent productivity and improving responsiveness.Insightful reports and analytics provide valuable data on help desk performance, like ticket volume, resolution times, customer satisfaction, and agent productivity.Top-notch security ensures your customers’ data is kept secure through features such as function-based access control, data encryption, audit trails, and more.Customer satisfaction surveys help you gather feedback from customers about their experience with your support team. You can utilize this information to identify areas for improvement and track progress over time.Pricing Agent-Based plans:Scale: $25 for 3 agents/monthGrowth: $50 for 3 agents/monthEnterprise: $75 for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential: $799 per monthPro: $1499 per monthBusiness: Contact usFree trial: 15 daysUnlimited AgentsHow many agents do you have? Pro$1499Flat Fee / Month Billed AnnuallyTry for freeUnlimited Agents VS 1001000 Professional $2000 Per MonthBilled Annually100 AgentsZendeskZendesk is one of the Zoho Desk alternatives that provides customer support functionalities.Its advanced omnichannel capabilities allow businesses to handle client communications across various channels from a single dashboard.Top features Omnichannel supportTicket routingAgent workspacesAI-powered botsThird-party integrationsPricing Support Team: $19/agent/monthSupport Professional: $55/agent/monthSupport Enterprise: $115/agent/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysBenefits of choosing Zendesk Easily integrates with all kinds of business softwareAccurately monitors critical customer service performance metricsDevelop customized services with its thoroughly designed API and appDisadvantages of choosing Zendesk Small businesses or businesses with a limited support budget might find the platform costlyFreshdeskFreshdesk, one of the Zoho Desk alternatives, is a cloud-based platform which provides a unified workspace for customer service agents to manage clients.Top featuresUnique dashboardsOmnichannel messagingTicket routingKnowledge base softwareSecurityAutomationPricing Growth:$15/agent/monthPro:$49/agent/monthEnterprise: $79/agent/monthBenefits of choosing FreshdeskSupport for a wide variety of essential communication servicesExtensive reporting and analytics capabilities for tracking customer service trendsRobust ticketing system for task automation and prioritizing support requestsDisadvantages of choosing Freshdesk New users may find the software complexSome features are less configurable and customizableKayakoKayako is another Zoho Desk alternatives that allows companies to centralize support communications across email, social media, and live chat.It offers essential help desk tools, including reporting and automation, that make it one of the Zoho Desk competitors.Top featuresCollaboration on ticketsKnowledge baseAutomationLive chat softwarePricing: Contact the company for info.Benefits of choosing Kayako Integrates many customer support channels, including online chat, email, and social media, into a single dashboardAutomate workflows, routine tasks, and repliesAssists businesses in monitoring and evaluating key performance metrics related to client satisfactionDisadvantages of choosing KayakoSome users experience a difficult learning curveUses a proprietary language for configuring and running reportsHubSpot Service HubHubSpot Service Hub is an alternative to Zoho Desk with a wide range of tools that cover all customer support needs.HubSpot CRM data can be joined to Service Hub, enabling support teams to acquire advanced context to better assist customers.Top featuresTicketing systemShared inbox and team emailReporting dashboardsLive chatPricing Starter: $18 per monthProfessional: $450 per monthBenefits of choosing HubSpot Service HubThe user-friendly platform makes it easy for support agents of any skill level to deliver quality serviceCentralizes customer data in one placeBuilt-in customer satisfaction surveys help companies better understand their customers to provide top-notch serviceDisadvantages of choosing HubSpot Service HubSmall businesses or startups with financial limitations may find the cost quite highAdvanced features might require a larger investment in trainingHelp ScoutHelp Scout is a customer assistance and help desk solution intended to improve communication between businesses and their customers.This Zoho Desk alternatives platform comes with prebuilt performance dashboards that help you better understand individual and team performance.Top featuresEmail ticketingKnowledge baseLive chatCustomer engagement analyticsPricing Standard: $20/agent/monthPlus: $40/agent/monthPro: $65/agent/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysBenefits of choosing Help ScoutUnified inbox for handling all support requestsSelf-service knowledge baseReal-time chat supportDisadvantages of choosing Help Scout Some users find its reporting capabilities limitedHiverHiver is an added alternative to Zoho Desk with multichannel customer support tool designed for teams utilizing Google Workspace.Top features Email templatesCustomer service collaborationAnalytics and reporting toolsWorkflow automationPricing Lite: $15/agent/monthPro: $39/agent/monthElite: $59/agent/monthFree trial duration: 7 daysBenefits of choosing Hiver Automates repetitive tasks, reducing manual effort and ensuring timely responses to customer inquiriesEnables seamless collaboration within shared inboxes, enhancing teamwork and efficiency in managing customer queriesAnalytics provide insight into team performance and customer interactions, ensuring data-driven decision-makingDisadvantages of choosing Hiver Some users find the initial integration process difficultHas limitations in terms of its customization capabilitiesHappyFoxHappyFox is a cloud-based help desk alternative to Zoho Desk for businesses seeking improved productivity in their customer support operations.Top featuresMultichannel supportKnowledge baseTicketing softwareAutomationThird-party integrationsPricing Mighty: $26/agent/monthFantastic: $39/agent/monthEnterprise: $52/agent/monthBenefits of choosing HappyFoxRobust ticketing system for efficient organization and prioritization of customer inquiriesAutomation and workflow management allow businesses to automate repetitive tasks and streamline processesBuilt-in support to create FAQs and guides as customer self-help resourcesDisadvantages of HappyFox Some users find the platform hard to navigate initiallyFrontFront is a customer operations platform for support, sales, and account teams to better understand and serve their customers.This platform offers a personalized approach to customer engagement.As a result offering tools for automated workflows and team collaboration, making it a viable alternative to Zoho Desk.Top features Collaboration toolsShared inboxIntegration with other apps and toolsInternal knowledge basePricing Starter: $19/agent/monthGrowth: $59/agent/monthScale: $99/agent/monthFree trial duration: 7 daysBenefits of choosing Front Stunning interface, collaboration features (shared inboxes, annotations, etc.), team-based workflows, and mobile appSuitable for support teams that emphasize teamwork and efficient communicationDisadvantages of choosing Front The cost may pose a challenge for small- and medium-sized enterprisesThe Starter and Growth plans only offer support via emailIntercomIntercom is a software that combines an AI chatbot, help desk, and customer communication within a single platform.It is an alternative to Zoho Desk whose strength lies in providing end-to-end messaging for businesses across multiple communication channels for enhanced customer engagement.Top features AI-enhanced shared inboxIn-app chatTools for developing onboarding resourcesPricing Essential:$39/seat/monthAdvanced:$99/seat/monthExpert: $139/seat/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysBenefits of choosing IntercomThe interface is straightforward to useSupports high-quality communication across multiple teams with high visibility, collaboration, and navigationCustomizable through add-ons, such as WhatsApp integrationDisadvantages of choosing IntercomSmall businesses may find the pricing expensiveThe Essential plan does not provide access to certain AI enhancementsGorgiasGorgias is a customer support help desk solution that is tailored specifically for e-commerce businesses.As one of the Zoho Desk alternatives, it can be integrated easily with various e-commerce platforms to streamline support operations.The Gorgias dashboard allows businesses to manage all customer service communication channels in one place making it a strong alternative to Zoho Desk.Top featuresTicketing systemCustomer knowledge baseIntegrationsLive chatPricing Starter: $10/month. 50 tickets/month limitBasic: $50/month. 300 tickets/month limitPro: $300/month. 2,000 tickets/month limitAdvanced: $750/month. 5,000 tickets/month limitBenefits of choosing Gorgias AI-assisted ticket managementAutomation toolsOmnichannel supportDisadvantages of choosing GorgiasMonthly ticket limits may pose problems for larger e-commerce businessesSome e-commerce platforms are not supported in lower pricing plansProProfs Help DeskProProfs Help Desk is an alternative to Zoho Desk software that provides a shared inbox, automation tools, and more.Top features Agent ticket routingSLA supervisionSupport for omnichannel communicationShared inboxPricing Single user: $0Team: $19.99/agent/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysBenefits of choosing ProProfsEasy-to-use shared inboxTicket routing automationReports on support metricsDisadvantages of choosing ProProfs The ProProfs knowledge base, live chat, and survey maker solutions are integrations that must be purchased separatelySalesforce Service CloudSalesforce Service Cloud is a help desk platform capable of integrating more than 2,500 applications making it one of the Zoho Desk competitors.Top features Case managementOmnichannel ticket routingAutomation toolsPricing Starter:$25/user/monthProfessional:$80/user/monthEnterprise:$165/user/monthUnlimited:$330/user/monthFree trial duration: 30 daysBenefits of choosing Salesforce Service CloudIntegrates seamlessly with other Salesforce productsProvides a robust ticketing system that allows users to monitor the time spent on each customer issueProvides workflow automation toolsDisadvantages of choosing Salesforce Service CloudThe advanced features can be difficult to learnThe product is updated three times per year, meaning new features may be overlooked or the platform may change notably after each releaseZoho Desk alternatives comparison tableThe following table summarizes the features and prices of Zoho Desk alternatives:NameFeaturesPricingLIKE.TGRobust ticketing systemThird-party integrationsAutomation toolsReports and analyticsUser-friendly customer service portalAI-enhanced assistanceTop-notch securityKnowledge baseMobile appCSAT surveysCanned responsesAgent-BasedStarter: $10/month for 10 agentsGrowth: $20/agent/monthEnterprise: $40/agent/monthUnlimited AgentsStandard: $499/monthPro: $999/monthBusiness: $1999/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysZendeskOmnichannel supportTicket routingAgent workspacesAI-powered botsThird-party integrationsSupport Team: $19/agent/monthSupport Professional: $55/agent/monthSupport Enterprise: $115/agent/monthFreshdeskUnique dashboardsOmnichannel messagingTicket routingKnowledge base softwareSecurityAutomationGrowth:$15/agent/monthPro:$49/agent/monthEnterprise: $79/agent/monthKayakoCollaboration on ticketsKnowledge baseAutomationLive chat softwareContact the company for infoHubSpot ServiceTicketing systemShared inbox and team emailReporting dashboardsLive chatStarter: $18 per monthProfessional: $450 per monthHelp ScoutEmail ticketingKnowledge baseLive chatCustomer engagement analyticsStandard: $20/agent/monthPlus: $40/agent/monthPro: $65/agent/monthHiverEmail templatesCustomer service collaborationAnalytics and reporting toolsWorkflow automationLite: $15/agent/monthPro: $39/agent/monthElite: $59/agent/monthHappyFoxMultichannel supportKnowledge baseTicketing softwareAutomationThird-party integrationsMighty: $26/agent/monthFantastic: $39/agent/monthEnterprise: $52/agent/monthFrontCollaboration toolsShared inboxIntegration with other apps and toolsInternal knowledge baseStarter: $19/agent/monthGrowth: $59/agent/monthScale: $99/agent/monthIntercomAI-enhanced shared inboxIn-app chatTools for developing onboarding resourcesEssential:$39/seat/monthAdvanced:$99/seat/monthExpert: $139/seat/monthGorgiasTicketing systemCustomer knowledge baseIntegrationsLive chatStarter: $10/month. 50 tickets/month limitBasic: $50/month. 300 tickets/month limitPro: $300/month. 2,000 tickets/month limitAdvanced: $750/month. 5,000 tickets/month limitProProfs Help DeskAgent ticket routingSLA supervisionSupport for omnichannel communicationShared inboxSingle user: $0.Team: $19.99/agent/monthSalesforce Service CloudCase managementOmnichannel ticket routingAutomation toolsStarter:$25/user/monthProfessional:$80/user/monthEnterprise:$165/user/monthUnlimited:$330/user/monthConsiderations for selecting the right alternative to Zoho DeskIf you’re searching for the suitable help desk solution for your business, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the benefits and drawbacks associated with Zoho Desk competitors.Here are some key points to consider:Ticketing system: Does your ticketing system need to be able to handle massive ticket volumes, or will simple ticketing features suffice?Customization: Each solution has a limit to its customization options, which can impact your ability to tailor the platform to your specific business processes.Complexity: Some Zoho Desk alternatives will have a steeper learning curve compared to simpler alternatives.Pricing: While solutions offer competitive pricing, some of their features might be locked behind higher payment tiers.Free trial period: How long does the solution’s free trial period last? Is that enough time to fully evaluate the product?Integrations: Does the alternative to Zoho Desk work well with your other business software?Which Zoho Desk alternative is right for you?Though Zoho Desk is a very popular help desk solution, it might not be the right choice for your business.As demonstrated in this article, the help desk software market is great and diverse, giving businesses of all sizes the ability to serve their customers, no matter how niche their industry is.By exploring the options listed in this blog, you can find the Zoho Desk alternatives help desk solution that aligns with your business goals and ensures you can deliver excellent customer support.Schedule a live demo to experience how LIKE.TG stands out from Zoho Desk and its alternatives. Start a free trial to experience many capabilities.If you have any queries, feel free to contact the LIKE.TG support team .Was this article helpful to you? Do you have any suggestions businesses should consider over Zoho Desk alternatives listed in this blog for exceptional customer service?Leave your thoughts and recommendations in the comment section below.Related articles 10 Best Freshdesk Alternatives for Businesses in 202420 Best Customer Service Tips for Better Support in 2024Customer Service Objectives: Examples and Importance

It is hard to find one platform that provides all the functionalities your business needs to deliver the best customer support. You must focus on the details that matter most to your support team.These can include pricing plans, chat features, knowledge base tools, scalability, and branding options.Some businesses choose Intercom as their support platform, since it allows companies to communicate and collaborate with their customers across multiple channels and features shared inboxes, customizable chatbots, live chat, and more.However, other Intercom alternatives may be better for your business’s unique support scenarios. In this blog, we’ll explore the best alternatives to Intercom on the market today. Why should you consider Intercom alternatives?Here are some considerations that may affect Intercom’s suitability for your enterprise:Pricing tiers limit features: Intercom’s pricing plans determine which features you can access in the platform. For example, the lowest pricing tier does not provide multiple team inboxes, a multilingual help center, nor custom reports and roles.Add-on costs: Additional charges exist for certain add-ons and advanced features, such as communication via SMS and WhatsApp, and its Proactive Support Plus add-on that supports product tours, surveys, mobile push alerts, and more. These variable factors can make it hard to predetermine your monthly costs for using the platform.Full AI features restricted to middle and highest pricing plans: The most affordable pricing plan only allows the use of its generative AI to write materials. The summarizing and autofill features are limited to the middle and highest price points.When selecting a solution for any problem, it’s sensible to check out alternatives. When you pay attention to the details, you may find what you’re looking for, or even more, at a lower cost.Top Intercom alternatives for businessesDiscover the best, most affordable Intercom alternatives for customer service, engagement, collaboration, and satisfaction, suitable for all types of businesses.LIKE.TGThe best alternative to Intercom for businesses looking for a comprehensive, easy-to-use help desk ticketing system.LIKE.TG is a comprehensive customer service software that enhances communication, improves team collaboration, and simplifies customer support workflows.It has many powerful, user-friendly features that are essential to delivering the best customer support possible, such as:AI CopilotShared inboxesIntegration capabilitiesOmnichannel supportKnowledge base toolsReporting and analytics toolsA mobile appLive chat support (Coming soon)These features empower businesses to effectively manage client inquiries, provide fast support, and build stronger relationships with customers.What’s more, businesses of all sizes can benefit from LIKE.TG’s scalability and user-friendly interface.Its transparent pricing plans guarantee that there are no surprises or hidden expenses when it comes to effectively budgeting for customer support needs.Key features The powerful ticketing system lets support teams easily create, track, and manage all customer requests and inquiries in a single, unified platform. It has functionalities such as email-based ticketing, shared inboxes, multi-brand, and task management.Multichannel support allows you to communicate and provide help to your customers seamlessly across the channels they prefer, such as live chat, email, or social media.The excellent mobile application helps your agents manage customer inquiries and receive support notifications on their preferred devices.Multilanguage help desk support helps translate content into the languages your customers use fluently.Generative artificial intelligence summarizes, rephrases, and provides SEO suggestions that improve agent productivity and maximize the utility of self-help resources. These AI-powered tools help agents rephrase and shorten responses, fix grammar, review customer replies, generate canned responses, and write support articles for easier customer interactions.Service-level agreement (SLA) automation ensures support teams receive alerts, reminders, and notifications about tickets so that none violate customer SLAs. It also ensures customers get regular updates on the progress of their support ticket issues, which keeps them at ease.Integration support allows you to connect LIKE.TG with your preferred tools and apps, such as Zappier, Slack, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams, to streamline your workflow and increase productivity.Reporting and analysis features help you to gather real-time data and make informed decisions on how to improve customer service.Knowledge base software lets you create, store, organize, and share information to help our customers find answers to their questions quickly.Top-notch security and compliance ensure that customer data is protected and communication is always secure.Advantages of LIKE.TGLIKE.TG stands out as the best Intercom alternative because of the following key benefits:Offers flexible, affordable pricing options.Ensures immediate support responses and quick resolutions to customer queries or problems via automation.Offers integration options for agents to connect with their preferred tools, streamlining workflows, organizing data, and boosting productivity.Pricing Agent-Based plans:Scale:$25for 3 agents/monthGrowth:$50for 3 agents/monthEnterprise:$75for 3 agents/monthUnlimited Agents plans:Essential:$799per monthPro:$1499per monthBusiness:Contact usFree trial duration: 15 daysSchedule a live demo to discover why you should choose LIKE.TG as your Intercom alternative. Start a free 15-day trial to experience its many functionalities.If you have any questions, feel free to contact the LIKE.TG support team.HelpCrunchAn Intercom competitor for multiple channels of communication.HelpCrunch is an Intercom alternative that provides a multichannel chat interface at a lower starting cost than Intercom.Key features Multichannel supportLive chatShared inboxKnowledge baseIntegrationsPricing Basic: $12/user/monthPro: $20/user/monthUnlimited: $495/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysTop differences between HelpCrunch and IntercomHelpCrunch’s multichannel messaging also supports Telegram and Viber.HelpCrunch’s pricing starts at a lower price point than Intercom and does not charge extra for in-product chat messages.DriftAn Intercom competitor for conversational customer service.Drift is a conversation-based customer relationship management platform that uses AI-enhanced chatbots to address the concerns of customers and leads.Key features Conversational AI chatbotsMobile appAnalytics and reportingIntegrationsPricing Premium: $2,500/monthAdvanced: Contact DriftEnterprise: Contact DriftTop difference between Drift and IntercomDrift focuses on turning conversations into conversions, while Intercom focuses on customer communication.TidioAn Intercom competitor for AI-enhanced customer support with simple setup.Tidio, another alternative to Intercom, provides a flexible customer support solution that is AI-driven to ensure better interactions with website visitors and increased conversions.It offers a simple setup process and integration with tools such as Shopify, WordPress, and Instagram.Key featuresConversational AIIntegrations with popular platformsMobile appVisitor trackingLive chatPricing Starter: $24.17/monthGrowth: $49.17/monthTidio+: $499/monthFree trial duration: 7 daysTop differences between Tidio and IntercomTidio offers budget-friendlier pricing plans that make it more accessible for small- to medium-sized businesses. However, its pricing is based on conversations, not agents. This poses a unique challenge in budgeting for support.Tidio provides a more user-friendly interface and efficient setup process according to reviewers.Help ScoutAn Intercom competitor that delivers a unified communication platform.Help Scout is a popular customer service platform that helps businesses manage their customer communications efficiently.Key features Shared inboxCollaboration features90+ integrationsKnowledge base toolsPricingStandard: $20/agent/monthPlus: $40/agent/monthPro: $65/agent/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysTop difference between Help Scout and IntercomHelp Scout focuses on streamlining customer support operations. Intercom, on the other hand, focuses on customer engagement and conversions.ZendeskAn Intercom competitorfor large businesses.Zendesk offers a suite of customer service tools, including a ticketing system, analytics, and automation. Users can tailor their Zendesk setup according to their needs and requirements.Key features Multilingual supportKnowledge baseIntegrationsMultichannel supportPricing Suite team: $55/agent/monthSuite growth: $89/agent/monthSuite professional: $115/agent/monthSuite Enterprise: Contact ZendeskFree trial duration: 14 daysTop differences between Zendesk and IntercomZendesk focuses on ticketing and customer support, while Intercom is a customer messaging platform that emphasizes real-time communication and engagement.Zendesk has a larger ecosystem of integrations with third-party apps compared to Intercom.OlarkAn Intercom competitor ideal for businesses seeking a live chat service.Olark is a live chat system that empowers companies to interact in real-time with website users, offer customer support, and facilitate sales.This user-friendly chat app also offers archiving for easy retrieval of past interactions.Key features AI-powered chatbotsExtensive customizationAutomationReportingPricing: Starts at $29/seat/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysTop differences between Olark and IntercomOlark has a simple and intuitive interface because it is primarily a chat app, while Intercom offers more advanced features.Intercom’s pricing structure is more complex due to its advanced offerings.HubSpotA customer support platform as one of the alternatives to Intercom. HubSpot Service Hub is a customer service platform known for its communication features, shared inboxes, omnichannel messaging, and knowledge base tools that help companies attract and delight customers.Key features Customer relationship management toolsShared inboxAutomationCustomer surveysKnowledge basePricing Starter: $15/month/agentProfessional: $90/month/agentEnterprise: $130/month/agentThe top difference between HubSpot Service Hub and IntercomHubSpot Service Hub is one part of the larger HubSpot ecosystem, which includes platforms for marketing, sales, operations, and more. HubSpot aims to be a full-business solution.Zoho DeskAn affordable Intercom competitor for smooth customer service operations.Zoho Desk is a cloud-based customer service platform that helps companies streamline and manage their customer support operations.It supports various third-party apps, including native mobile apps, to ensure an excellent client experience.Key features Ticket managementCollaboration toolsCustomization toolsAutomationSelf-servicePricing Standard: $14/user/monthProfessional: $23/user/monthEnterprise: $40/user/monthFree trial duration: 15 daysThe top difference between Zoho Desk and IntercomZoho Desk focuses on ticket management and support automation, while Intercom emphasizes customer engagement and messaging automation.FreshdeskOne of the Intercom competitors for businesses whose support focuses on ticketing and call center assistance.Freshdesk is a cloud-based customer support solution that empowers companies to better serve their customers through a robust ticketing system, automation tools, a huge selection of integrations, and live chat.Key features Ticketing systemMobile appCollaboration toolsSLA managementPricing Growth: $15/user/monthPro: $49/user/monthEnterprise: $79/user/monthFree trial duration: 14 daysTop differences between Freshdesk and IntercomFreshdesk focuses on organized support management, while Intercom emphasizes dynamic and personalized interactions.Freshdesk offers a free version with limited features for up to 10 users. Intercom does not offer a free version.LiveAgentOne of the affordable Intercom competitors. LiveAgent is customer service software that businesses use to engage with their website visitors in real-time.The platform is designed to streamline question answering through any communication channel customers use which makes it one of the Intercom alternatives.Key features Live chatOmnichannel messagingTicketing systemChat routingPricingSmall business: $9/user/monthMedium business: $29/user/monthLarge business: $49/user/monthFree trial duration: 30 daysTop difference between LiveAgent and IntercomLiveAgent’s pricing plans start much lower than Intercom’s.LiveAgent does not support any AI-enhanced features at this time.Intercom alternatives comparison tableThe following table summarizes the features and prices of Intercom alternatives:Intercom alternativesKey features Pricing Free trial durationLIKE.TGTicketing systemMultichannel supportGenerative artificial intelligenceMobile applicationMultilanguage help deskSLA automationIntegration supportReporting and analysisKnowledge base softwareSecurity and ComplianceStarts at $10/month for 3 users15 daysHelpCrunchMultichannel supportLive chatShared inboxKnowledge baseIntegrationsStarts at $12/user/month14 daysDriftConversational AI chatbotsMobile appAnalytics and reportingIntegrationsStarts at $2,500/monthN/ATidioConversational AIIntegrationsMobile appVisitor trackingLive chatStarts at $24.17/month7 daysHelp ScoutShared inboxCollaboration toolsIntegrationsKnowledge baseStarts at $20/agent/month15 daysZendeskMultilingual supportKnowledge baseIntegrationsMultichannel supportStarts at $55/agent/month14 daysOlarkAI-powered chatbotsExtensive customizationAutomationReportingStarts at $29/seat/month14 daysHubSpotCustomer relationship management toolsShared inboxAutomationCustomer surveysKnowledge basePricing starts at $15/agent/monthN/AZoho DeskTicket managementCollaboration toolsCustomization toolsAutomationSelf-serviceStarts at $14/user/month15 daysFreshdeskTicketing systemMobile appCollaboration toolsSLA managementStarts at $15/user/month14 daysThings to consider for selecting the best Intercom alternativeWhile many Intercom competitors are available, only a few will suit your company’s requirements.The following considerations should guide your decision when choosing the ideal tool for your customer service team.Proactive customer supportWhen selecting one of the Intercom alternatives, prioritize features that enable your team to deliver proactive customer service, like live chat and customized messaging.Selecting a proactive customer service solution will help you address customer needs before they reach out for support, building trust, customer loyalty, and a competitive advantage.A smooth setup processWhen choosing an Intercom alternative, streamlined implementation is essential so that you can begin delivering support as swiftly as possible.An easy setup process eliminates the need for technical expertise and extensive training, facilitating a seamless transition to efficient support provision without complications.Live chat supportWhen selecting an alternative to Intercom, consider live chat functionality as an important feature for real-time customer engagement and support.This will ensure fast responses and enhanced user experiences on your platform.The live chat feature should also be easy to embed on different platforms such as websites, mobile apps, and social media sites.PricingBusinesses with limited resources should look for an Intercom alternative that fits their goals and budget.Nearly every solution offers different features at different pricing tiers, so what may be out of reach in one solution may be affordable in another.Choose an Intercom competitor optimal for your teamWhen selecting an Intercom alternative that best fits your team’s needs, it’s important to carefully assess flexibility, pricing, and features.While Intercom is regarded as a top customer service tool, other options may offer better features, greater customization, and more cost-effective pricing structures.You must ensure that the customer service solution you select can meet your company’s needs. That is why you should consider LIKE.TG to perfect the support your team can deliver.We hope that this article has provided you with some great options for the best Intercom alternative for your company!Please feel free to add any thoughts or comments in the space given below for comments.Related articles 16 Best Zendesk Alternatives for Businesses in 202410 Best Freshdesk Alternatives for Businesses in 2024The Importance of Involving Your Entire Company in Customer Service

Saying no to customers’ requests can be quite unpleasant for company employees. The fear of potentially ruining the customer relationship and the threat of customer churn are situations that customer service teams never look forward to. In such cases, knowing how to say no to customers in a polite way is what may save you from losing the customer.It might be a request beyond our capabilities, a deadline that is too tight to meet, or a product that just isn’t ready yet.But to be honest, as much as we strive to meet the needs of every client, agreeing to every request is simply not realistic.This blog shares tips on how to decline customer requests without offending them. 7 Tips on how to say no to customersTurning down a customer’s request might appear to conflict with a customer-centric approach required to maintain a competitive advantage.In fact, 59% of all consumers feel companies have lost touch with the human element of customer experience -PwcGetting bogged down with requests that are beyond the scope of your SLA and support team’s capabilities decreases the quality of your customer service overall, though.Here are some best practices on how to say no to a customer’s request while maintaining a positive relationship.StrategyExampleAcknowledge the customer’s request first before you turn it downThank you for writing to us about this. We truly appreciate the opportunity to understand your needs better.Unfortunately, we’re currently unable to accommodate your request.Decline in an empathetic toneWe understand how important this is to you, and I genuinely wish we could help.Regrettably, we’re unable to fulfill your request at this time.Be honest about why you cannot fulfill customer requestsWe understand how important integrated chat support is for your workflow.Unfortunately, due to current development priorities, we’re unable to implement the feature soon.Suggest alternative solutions to the issueThe advanced analytics and reporting feature is only available in our higher-tier pricing plan.If upgrading isn’t an option, let us show you how you can maximize your current plan with the existing analytics features.Communicate your thoughts positivelyThank you for sharing your idea!While we cannot implement your request now, we have noted your suggestion and will consider it for future updates.Ask for feedback from the customersThanks for reaching out!Though we are unable to accommodate your request now, we’d greatly value your input on ways to enhance our services.Would you mind taking a quick survey?Follow through with the clientI wanted to get in touch following our recent conversation where we were unable to fulfill your request.I’m here to discuss alternative solutions or address further concerns you may have.Please feel free to reach out if we can help with anything else.Practical examples of when to say no to customersWhile it’s tempting to always say yes to keep customers happy, there are circumstances where saying no to customers is the best course of action for both you and your client.When the request is beyond your scope of expertiseSometimes, customers have expectations that simply can’t be met. It could be a deadline that is impossible or a feature that would require you to significantly alter your product.Saying no to customers and being honest about your limitations is key in such situations.When the request goes against company policy or ethical standardsSometimes, fulfilling a customer request may mean violating your core values and policies.For example, if a customer asks you to lie, cheat, or break the law, you should refuse to do so.Explain to them how processing their request goes against your policies without making any kind of value judgment.When the request would harm your businessCertain requests, like offering unfair discounts or compromising the product quality, might damage your reputation or financial stability.Saying no to customers helps maintain integrity and protects your financial stability.When the customer is abusive or disrespectfulNo one deserves to be treated poorly. If a customer becomes rude, abusive, or aggressive, you have the right to protect yourself and your team.This could mean saying no to them or even cutting off communication completely.Say no to customers while maintaining positive relationshipsManaging customer expectations can often be challenging, particularly when they make requests beyond your capacity to fulfill. The delicate task of saying no to customers without losing them is a common dilemma for businesses.However, we hope the strategies shared in this blog will help guide you in respectfully and professionally declining.LIKE.TG empowers you to communicate effectively with customers to create an environment that encourages future business. Contact us to arrange a live demo and experience how our features can enable you to swiftly navigate through service issues and enhance your customer connections. Or, sign up for our15-day free trialto try it for yourself.Do you have any other suggestions on how to say no to customers? Please share your feedback in the comments section below.Related articles9 Great Alternatives to “Happy to Help”Customer Thank You Notes: Examples and Tips45 Exceptional Customer Service Phrases (+14 You Should Avoid)