As customer service is the key to many business’ success, it is important to recognize the people and companies that are going the extra mile to ensure satisfaction.

Besides our magazine’s sixth annual Service Awards coming out in April 2009 (today is the last day to nominate your company for awards), there are even more opportunities to get your name out there — the finalists were just named for the third annual Stevie Awards, which will be announced in Las Vegas on February 9.

According to the company’s Web site, the leading contenders that are finalists in multiple categories include:

• Broadridge Financial Solutions;
• The Cobalt Group;
• Crossroads Systems;
• Direct Alliance;
• Golden 1 Credit Union;
• Office Depot;
• PeopleAdmin;
• SDL International;
• Somerby of Alpharetta;
• SurePayroll; and
• TELUS Corporation.

Check out the full list of all of the Stevie Award finalists in the 27 customer service categories here.

According to a statement released by Michael Gallagher, president of the Stevie Awards, “The results of the judging thus far illustrate that even in a tough economic environment, companies can still outperform in customer service.”

For the customer service professionals out there, do you believe that there are enough opportunities for truly deserving companies and people to be rewarded for their hard work? Does it help boost morale during this difficult economic time, or do you find it to be self-serving?