Consumers get to rate best service providers in South Africa

Smoke Customer Care Solutions, is spearheading the first South African Service Awards that will put companies and brands against each other in a competition that goes directly to consumers to highlight the providers of superior service. The four categories are Tiny Giants, Small Companies, Medium Companies and Large Companies.

Companies will be rated by their customers - not judges - on a standardised survey that will be accessible on the Internet and Facebook. Consumers will be motivated to participate by having a chance to win iPads and other lucky draw prizes. The competition will run from 1 September to 30 November 2011. Voter registration is currently open. The votes will be counted and audited with the awards gala being held in late January 2012.

Most respondents will rate companies

In a survey, completed by 2514 consumers, 96% of respondents said they would rate companies in the South African Service Awards. Additionally, the top five industries that South African consumers would like to rate are banks (91%), mobile operators (85%), retailers (73%), airlines (69%), and accommodation and fast food (tied at 63%).

Andrew Cook, CEO of Smoke Customer Care Solutions says, "In many industries there are low levels of rivalry, so companies often don't invest in customer service. On the other hand, many put the systems and processes in place to offer great service. They should be recognised for their efforts."

For more information go to www.saservice.co.za or www.facebook.com/SAServiceAwards.