In both large and small businesses throughout the world, customer service is the one constant that can make or break a company. The most coveted consumer for any company is one who maintains long-term loyalty, and a negative experience with a product or service can have a dramatic impact. As companies face increased pressure to maintain the bottom line in a global market, they face the dilemma of whether to spend money on improving customer service or cut costs and risk losing customers.

There’s more to customer satisfaction than customer service. The most pleasant experience with a person can’t make up for bad food, faulty products or shipping delays. There are several factors – 10 of which are outlined here – that influence a customer’s decision to return or move on.

Every boss wishes for an office filled with happy, motivated and downright fantastic employees. … Dream on. The fact is there’s usually one bad apple in the bunch, and maybe many more. Bad behavior isn’t just the domain of the stereotypical boss; it’s a place many employees venture as well.

Customer satisfaction drives a customer’s intent to return. Knowing the differences between what men and women want can give a business an edge to increase repeat business and profitability.