In the 'Ask and Fulfill' approach, what is the typical opening phrase used to start assisting a customer?

• A. What can I do for you?
• B. Would you like assistance?
• C. How may I help you?
• D. Can I assist you today?

Answer: (C)

Opening with a phrase that invites the customer to share their needs sets the interaction up for successful service. “How may I help you?” is polite and open-ended, signaling readiness to assist with any request. It doesn’t assume a specific task and keeps the conversation flexible, which is ideal for uncovering a wide range of needs—whether the customer is asking about finding a product, checking a price, or handling a return.

Other options can feel more prescriptive or more tentative. “What can I do for you?” can come across as slightly blunt or transactional. “Would you like assistance?” sounds more like a suggestion than a direct invitation. “Can I assist you today?” adds a time frame and a slightly formal edge, which can feel less natural in quick, everyday conversations.

So, the best choice balances politeness, openness, and approachability, encouraging the customer to describe their needs in their own words while signaling you’re ready to help.