Stress Busters!

Customer Service work isn’t easy. In the face of downsizing, many CSRs that have survived the cut are facing increased workload and expectations. The job itself is stressful, but nowadays it’s even more so. So here are some tips for managing stress.

Take Lunches and Breaks: You need that time to rejuvenate and recharge and it doesn’t take a lot of time to do either. To have a true break , you have to step away from your desk. Even if you just go to the break room, get up from the desk and take a real break.

Photo Finish: It’s a clichéd customer service technique to keep a mirror on your desk to remember to smile. I say, have a family photo to remember why you are working so hard. Maybe even have a humorous cartoon or photo to remind you to keep things in perspective. Change your photos and cartoons every so often, so you don't get bored.

Have a Talk: This one is tricky. Don’t necessarily talk about work (or co-workers) but at your lunch break talk to your co-workers about a favorite TV show or music. Talk, laugh, put a little fun into your breaks.

Take a Walk: Smokers have the right idea. They go outside to smoke. I’m not saying you should smoke, but getting outside for even five minutes can make a difference.

The Rear View Mirror: You don’t want to take your stress at work home with you. So at the end of the day, before you pull out of the parking lot, put on a favorite CD or radio station. As you head out of the parking lot and down the street, glance in your rear view mirror and notice your workplace getting smaller and smaller as it fades into the background. Your stress should go with it. Begin to turn your thoughts to: the music on the radio, the evening ahead, the rain on your windshield, … anything but work!