Banker S.A. September 2012 | Page 36

BANKING NEWS Customers take charge The behaviors and preferences of banking customers are changing worldwide, according to Ernst & Young's 2012 global consumer banking survey. C onsumers who are taking control of their banking relationships, are increasingly likely to change banks and expect to be able to choose between a range of service levels and costs, according to Ernst & Young’s 2012 global consumer banking survey. The study, which questioned 28 560 banking customers across 35 countries, highlights how customers also expect to be financially rewarded for their loyalty. Pierre Pilorge, Ernst & Young’s Financial Services Advisory Markets Leader for Europe, Middle East, India and Africa says ‘Customers are sending banks a very clear message – “we are taking control”. ‘In response, banks must reevaluate customer trends region by region to prioritise products, enhance services, and ultimately give customers what they want,’ he adds. Banks need to make it personal. Globally only 44% of customers say their bank adapts products and services to meet their needs. Seventy percent of customers would be happy to disclose personal information if it improved the level of service and products they were offered. ‘Customers are looking to banks to help them shape their experience. Banks need to reassess their offer and consider more tiered products and services,’ pronounces Pierre. … and reward loyalty properly! Loyalty reward schemes are on the rise with 27% of customers are enrolled on a scheme, up by 50% from 2011. However, customers expect more – the overwhelming majority agreed that if you have three products or more with a bank you should get better