#Japan #Kyoto #Helpfeel #CustomerHarassment #AIknowledge

Helpfeel's Eye-Opening Survey on Customer Harassment

Helpfeel, a company dedicated to enhancing corporate capabilities through its AI Knowledge Data Platform, recently achieved a remarkable milestone. The firm's press release featuring their survey on customer harassment, dubbed 'カスハラ' in Japanese, has made it to the top tier of the 'Press Release Awards 2025', proudly standing out among 4,573 entries as one of the 'Best 101'. This achievement not only underscores the relevance of their research but also amplifies the conversation surrounding customer behavior in service industries.

An Insightful Survey

The selected press release, titled “Is Saying ‘Please Smile’ Customer Harassment? Exploring the Boundaries of Harassment in the Reiwa Era”, reveals some thought-provoking patterns in public perception. Released on March 18, 2025, the survey, which amassed insights from over 10,000 individuals across Japan, examined the varying attitudes toward what constitutes customer harassment across different age groups and regions. Intriguingly, while half of the Gen Z respondents regarded requests for discounts as harassment, the cultural perceptions in regions such as Kyushu showed a heightened sensitivity to harassment compared to the more tolerant attitudes observed in Kansai.

The aim of this survey was to shine a light on the 'gray areas' of behavior that can be perceived as harassment, such as unsolicited photography or excessive demands for discounts. By addressing these everyday interactions, Helpfeel's research noticeably highlights a generational and regional divide, prompting essential discussions about the upcoming customer harassment prevention ordinances expected to be enacted soon.

Recognition by Industry Experts

The significance of Helpfeel's research did not go unnoticed. Judges from the awards shared commendations, underlining how the title directly grabbed attention and reflected a pressing societal concern regarding what constitutes harassment in customer interactions. Experts such as Yoshinori Kobayashi, editorial chief at TV Tokyo, noted the clever juxtaposition of stereotypes from previous generations, thus revitalizing discussions around generational differences that impact perceptions of customer behavior.

Adding to the accolades, Takahiko Hoshino from President Inc. praised the timely focus on a social issue that resonates with the public. The survey designer’s ability to weave contemporary concerns into the fabric of their research has been lauded as an effective communication strategy that aligns with rising inclinations toward social responsibility.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps

The clarity afforded by the survey results sheds light on the pressing need for businesses to understand these existing disparities. As Helpfeel integrates AI into their approach by providing businesses with a robust platform for knowledge management, the aim is two-fold: alleviating employees' burdens while simultaneously enhancing service quality. The company's AI Knowledge Data Platform ensures that information regarding customer interactions, including sensitive topics like harassment, is meticulously curated. This strategic utilization of AI allows organizations to maintain consistency in customer relations, catering to the varying comfort levels across generations and regions.

Strengthening Corporate Efforts

Helpfeel is committed to continuing its dual mission of addressing societal challenges while enriching its product offerings. The recent survey is merely a stepping stone toward fostering a harassment-free environment in customer interactions. The AI Knowledge Data Platform supports organizations in navigating this complex landscape by ensuring accessible knowledge integration, thus paving the way for more equitable customer service practices.

In conclusion, Helpfeel exemplifies how businesses can leverage nuanced insights to navigate the complexities of modern consumer relationships. The recognition through the Press Release Awards 2025 underscores not just their commitment to innovation, but also signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing dialogue concerning customer expectations and their implications for service industries.