I went to a store whose name you’d recognize to return shoes that didn’t fit. The Customer Service lady greeted me warmly, and listened intently to my concern. She asked if I had my receipt. I apologized I did not. She said, “No problem! Just pick out another pair and I’ll take care of it.”
Wow. Thanks! (I love that place.)
Another time I went to a different store where the Customer Service guy never looked at me. When I showed him the pants I bought with a tear in the seam, he mumbled “Do you have the receipt?” Indeed I did. “When did you buy them?” The date was clearly printed on the statement. “Have you worn them?” I had not. “Let me get my manager.” Several minutes later he produces another mumbling no-eye-contact guy. This one had a tie. He ran through the exact spiel with his glassy eyed underling looking on. Finally, after the second round of third degree, he gave a heavy sigh and reluctantly agreed to allow me the privilege of exchanging his coveted pants, with this scolding: “JUST MAKE SURE THEY’RE EXACTLY THE SAME.”
Got it. And while I do, get a good look at the back of my head, because it’s the last you’ll see of me.
A good customer service department is imperative in any business. Even the best companies have problems, and need the right people to handle them appropriately to keep buyers coming back.
Think of your relationships. Everyone from your immediate family to your casual acquaintances and everyone in between. How we treat them is important.
Early on, we’re on our best behavior. With time, we get lax. We overlook common courtesies we used to employ when we were trying to make a good impression.
In order to keep relationships strong, and more importantly, to best shine a light for Jesus, we have to run our own Customer Service department.
Remember simple kindnesses you may practice with strangers. Please and thank you go a long way. Holding the door for someone may feel awkward, but is always appreciated. Giving an extra minute of time with a listening ear and a caring heart is a wonderful habit.
Look people in the eye. Smile!
Your service to others is a great way to shine your light and spread God’s love. It’s good for you, it’s good for everyone! It will keep people coming back! Everybody loves good service!
“For even the son of man did not come to be served, but to serve…” Mark 10:45