HSBC 'Delighted' To Win Banking Award

We all hope for the best from our providers; especially those that deal with our hard earned cash. So it is good news for those who have accounts with HSBC as they have been voted the top bank for customer service in a recent report.

A well known brand and innovation strategy firm ranked the company top of a list of ten providers. Mystery shoppers generated the data, which found that the firm helped its customers "above expectation" both online and in-branch. The bank was recommended for its friendly customer welcome and attentive staff. Their branch environment and online banking service were also highlighted in the study.

HSBC's general manager of personal financial services said the organisation was "delighted" at the award.

"We have an excellent team who work incredibly hard across the business to deliver consistently good customer service and it is great to see their dedication and hard work being recognised," he commented.

HSBC was one of only two institutions that offered its customers an experience that was rated above expectations. Other banks which ranked highly included NatWest, Citibank and Barclays. The Post Office and Lloyds TSB were equal last in the poll.

A partner at the firm who commissioned that poll suggested that financial institutions who invest in improving their services to consumers could "see a great return".

Increasingly customers are demanding a good service from their providers. In turn they reward with loyalty. In addition, people who are happy with their bank will recommend it to friends and family. There is no better advertising than word of mouth.

Top worst customer service gripes:

•    Automated menus on the phone.
•    Repair or delivery people that do not turn up when they say they will.
•    If you visit the branch having to wander around aimlessly trying to find someone who will deal with you.
•    Being passed around to several different people and having to explain your problem several times because you don’t quite fit into one of their categories.
•    Being given the wrong phone number on correspondence.

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