I was recently listening to a friend complain about the fact that she could not get good service or even basic attention at many stores and businesses these days. You know what I mean, "Old Fashioned Service" and here is the funny thing, she is only 26 years old. I have been hearing the same thing for years and with the advent of Big Box Retail, Megastores, and Corporate empires along with a lack of personal involvement on the part of many business owners I see this happening at many businesses locally. However, after thinking about it for awhile, I realized that "old fashioned service" DOES still exist. The unfortunate fact is that you sometimes have to look around to find it!
Obviously, the key ingrediants to great service in any business are the people. My neighborhood convenience store manager, Cherie Kalaher is a great example. She is exceedingly friendly and also very mischievous. When I first began stopping there for gas, coffee and other items, I would hear her teasing others in the store and always enjoyed watching her in action (while managing to avoid any of her humorous barbs)! One day I was in a long line (yes it is a popular store) and when my turn arrived, I asked her to go easy on me. She laughed and said "Well honey, if you would just get caught up on our "child support payments" I would not have to hassle you!!" I was so shocked that I was speechless (a rare event) and all of the regulars in line broke up laughing"! I managed to recover and then began laughing myself. Since that time we have become good friends and I always make it a point to stop by just to see if she has a new story, joke or to watch her tease a "newcomer" to the neighborhood. She knows everyone and just about everything going on!
There are many other places where I do business in the community and again, the main reason is the people who work there every day. My local hardware store Breed & Company is managed by David Oltrogge. He is one of those people who has an encyclopedic mind and can help with any request in the store. If you want to know; what it takes, how it works or what will fix it, he is your man! At my favorite local restaurants, grocery stores, book stores, (yes you read that correctly - plural) gas station, music store, library, mechanic, camera shop and even at my Post Office are folks who I know and depend on to help me with whatever service I require. I wish I could list them all with a link to their respective web sites and plan to in the near future! In my profession as a real estate broker, I am keenly aware of the service aspect in my job. There are over 10,000 real estate agents in my MLS area and the only thing that differentiates us from each other is a professional approach and the level of knowledge and service we are willing to provide to our clients and customers! There are business establishments for every need and competition is fierce for business in the general public! Because of this, I avoid places where I am met with arrogance, indifference or rude treatment. I can almost always find what I need in a better environment!
Now, more than ever, in this current economic downturn it's important to patronize the folks who practice the Golden Rule and truly work for the customer!
Good service, knowledgeable and courteous assistance also comes with the responsibility to be a good customer! How many times have you watched rude, demanding patrons mistreat and abuse an employee who is trying their best? Such impatient, angry treatment is not soon forgotten and I am always amazed at the customers who act in such an inappropriate manner! On more than one occasion, I have been the next person in line and when appropriate, I usually say something funny or empathetic that in some way diffuses the situation. Over the years I have developed some good relationships; you know the type, when they see you walk in they smile and greet you and the feeling is mutual.
In Texas, we have a reputation for being friendly and though that may not ALWAYS be the case, I like to think it is true more often than not. It's really a way of life and not just an empty saying. A few years ago, a friend related the story about a European family on vacation that stopped for lunch at a small West Texas Café. After finishing their meal, they paid the bill and told the owner how much they enjoyed the meal and the friendly service. As they began to leave the owner said, "Y'all come back". The family turned around and marched back in, literally taking the man at his word. Funny story and as you know, it is just an expression in Texas but what makes people return to any business anywhere is friendly, courteous knowledgeable and professional service! So, please patronize the businesses where these options are available and you will be doing yourself and that business a favor!
Thanks for dropping by my blog today, y'all come back real soon!
Russell, this is so true. And it is so easy and so much more fun to be nice to people. Like you, if I am in line and someone abuses the staff, I always say something to them when I get to the front of the line, to make them smile or cheer them up. As Benjamin Disraeli said "Life is too short to be small". Russell, if I am ever in Texas, I can't imagine enjoying a tour from anyone more than I would enjoy going around town with you! xxoo
That's funny. I almost never get bad service. I attribute a large amount of it to karma, being optimistic and flexible. It also helps knowing that the way of the world is to slow down those that are in a hurry. Always have something to do when impediments occur. You get what you give. See you Wed.
Of course Russell you never met a stranger so I have no doubt that you know someone in every store that you go into. I also know that you are forever trying to diffuse a bad situation and for that I am always grateful. I do know those humans who always seem to be having bad days-you just kind of have to feel sorry for them, huh? I will certainly keep you in mind the next time I am having one of those moments! :) Love you Russell!
And somehow, I do not think that I will have a choice-I will be back!
Liz
Russell, I am always amazed at the lack of attention and often bad treatment that we sometimes get from a business and agree that it can be frustrating. I think you are probably easier to get along with on a regular basis. However, like you I patronize the businesses where I receive good service and treatment!
Isn't that the truth. We always make it to the stores, gas stations, restaurants where the people are friendly and service is great. Even if there are other stores of the same brand - people make the difference. ~Rita
I agree that if the service is bad, I dont go back.. Just a few of the places I patronize..
Shell Station on Bee Caves.. Randy and Dale
Sonic on South Lamar.. they know I like my CornDogs crispy with a side cup of mustard..
Pots N Plants on Bee Cave and 360... Rosendo keeps it looking fantastic..
Lions Municipal Golf Course.. they guys behind the desk know all the funny golf jokes and stories..
Alamo Title.. Yogi Gilligan.. Best in the business
You're so right that not only is it our expertise that is important, but also our delivery. And wouldn't it be nice too if we also made a habit of bragging to others about the good people we deal with rather than complaining about the bad ones. Your article is a good reminder for both, thanks Russell.
A lot of it is how the person views their work...if it's just a job then there is no caring that goes into it...if they really like what they're doing...it shows.
Hi Susan I am sometimes frustrated by bad service but really try and take into account what is happening at the time (I have not always been the most patient but try to be tolerant). I really enjoy that quote because that sort of behavior does indeed diminish a person in many ways, BTW, if you are ever in Texas I would consider it a treat to give you a tour of Austin, I can never say enough about all the good things available in our fair city!
AJ Now I do agree that what we put out there we get back and often we have the opportunity to react in a manner that is not knee-jerk. Setting a better example is always in our power to choose. Thanks for dropping by and I will see you on Wednesday! Thanks!
Liz You are so kind and I thank you for your compliments. I have not always been patient and understanding and like everyone still has days where bad treatment irritates the heck out of me. I do manage to think before I act and it's always better! It's funny actually that I seem to have ended up on the side of "the voice of reason" more often these days!! LOL
Scott Many businesses offer the same products and service and (like those of us in the real estate profession) the only way they can set themselves apart is by the level of service provided!
Brian & Rita I completely agree and you have put it so succinctly when you say that "people make the difference" Thanks for your comments!
Buster I also like the idea of touting the folks whom we like and would trust to send business. I think that I am going to do more posts about the people and place that I think are the stars in our community!
Elsa I agree that it would be a good idea to promote the people products and services in our cities that we like! It is really the best type of advertising a business could ask for! I know that negative comments are difficult to overcome. Thanks for your comments!
Sally You make such an excellent point. I find it so interesting that whatever the position or place of business. The person working has to have a good attitude. My family was in the grocery business and I once told my Father that some of it was boring. His reply was that it takes all kinds and that no matter your station in life a person can take pride in their work. It's different for different people! I could not agree more. Thanks for your excellent insight!
Russell, I certainly agree that attitude plays an important part of "service" I know people and business owners who are very good at what they do but come off with an arrogant style or worse the type that treat you with the concept that you "need" them. No one is irreplaceable and i do like your positive approach to both sides of business as a vendor and as a customer!
Hi Russell-What an excellent post. It touches not only on how important good customer service is but it also about localism because you are talking about the local stores in your area which is a plus for everybody. Great post. I hope your Open House yesterday was a success. Enjoy your evening and have a blessed week. :-)
Russell - Nicely stated, my friend! I wrote a post a few days ago praising some local businesses as well.
What a cool post about the importance of good service. We have choices and every business and sales asociate (no matter what field) should be mindful of what they can do for their customer. Next time you should write about this more specifically as it relates to real estate and to the excellent service YOU provide!
Sharon Thank you for your compliment, I was making an effort to speak in a general way about good service in every part of the country and plan to address this subject in some upcoming Localiam posts. Thereare so many great places that do practise great service in Austin that I need to write about a few individually where I am a happy customer! BTW my open house was excellent with 43 different individuals and groups who came by to preview!
Jason Thanks very much for your comment. I was posting this as some thought provoking info for every area of the country but plan to begin posting some of the place we frequent in our part of town! Talk to you soon!
Mattie I wrote this post as part of the Carnival of Content event and wanted to speak t a subject that affects people everywhere. For that reason, I did not "toot my own horn" as it would have defeated the purpose of writing about a subject that is important to all entities in business as well as their customers! Thanks for the kudos, I know you are a bit biased so have a good evening!
Really nice blog. A good reminder for all us. The real estate business is just like this. It's all local. The folks come back to see us just they way they do the folks who tend the stores.
Howdy Russell-What a great post. I would have liked to see the look on your face when that lady first said that to YOU. PRICELESS! You are such a warm fun loving fellow. You do an awesome job promoting local business and customer service all across our country. Hope you are doing well. Have a great week. ;-)
Hi Russell-I came back soon ya'll LOL
Hi Russell. Isn't it interesting how we acknowledge good customer service? Must be cause it seems so rare these days. A lesson for all of us to be that way ourselves when we treat people.
Interesting comments on the idea of being from Texas. It might be a geographic/cultural thing. I'm from Missouri and I think people are incredibly friendly there.
there Russell, my friend
It sure is amazing. How many business, don't give folk's old fashioned service to their custom's these days. Most times I don't even get a thank you for shopping with us. When I go to Wal-Mark here, I always say to the so called door greeds here, Welcome to your Wal-Mart. Do I get a funny look from them.
As always you have written a real fine post.
Hi Russell!
Being a native Sacramentan, and living within 3 miles of the same area my entire life, I have developed wonderful friendships with local businesses. Hollywood Hardware, where the owner, Denny will always come help, Swanson's Cleaners, where she has my clothes ready to go before I get in the door, Freeport Bakery, where they know I come in on Thursdays for their Buttermilk Bundt and get it ready without my asking, Vic's Ice Cream, where I sit down and they bring me my fresh lemon diet Coke without ordering it. And, even though they are not in my neighborhood, WestAmerica greets me by name every time. These are the businesses we need to support...because they are our legacy!
Marian I appreciate your comment, our real estate business IS local and I like your analogy about "tending the store"!
Pat I was completely flabbergasted. Just about everyone who meets her is always and surprised and eventually charmed. The store location is just outside the Westlake boundary and I always said if she lived there she would be the Mayor! You would really enjoy her!
And Pat, Y'all please come back any old time!
Gary I know many people think "good service" is not as prevalent as in the past but it does exist and it is essential in every business endeavor! I appreciate you dropping by!
Mike You are right about the geographic part of "friendliness but there are good people everywhere. Missouri is also part of a friendly "Southern Tradition" and I do know some extraordinary people from your part of the world. Thanks for dropping by!
Dale Howdy my friend! Good service is hopefully making a comeback and you make a great point about the places we shop. Even a Big Box outfit can have good people! I think people like you and me were raised on good manners and with a friendly outlook on life (and that always is a bonus). have a good week my friend!
Paula Great to see you here. The legacy of out business is so important to us as realtors too as well as the local companies that deserve our support! I like your mention of some of your favorites. Especially the Ice Cream and Bakery! I love our local Amy's Ice Creams and wrote a post about them last year! Hmmm...it might be time to make a return visit and update my blog!
Thank you Russell,
For highlighting an age-old, time-tested, principle that works. As you mention, with all the competition, people CAN go elsewhere when they are regarded with indifference. Equally important is being a good customer ourselves. Where do our customers come from? The waitress who brings the wrong order may very well be our next customer--horror or relief?!
Great post!
Good Morning Russell - Excellent points to make and for us to practice. Like you I always feel bad if a rude customer chews out someone who just didn't deserve it....and try to make up for the disruption by adding a little levity or good cheer. BUT, having had my own share of bad days and gone out into the world with a bit of an attitude, I try to cut some slack as well. Once I even asked a very upset person if everything was alright and would she like to talk. That had a amazingly calming effect. No one is perfect, but as long as those scales are nicely tipped to the good side means we're doing something right...and still room for improvement. This is a nice feel-good post...thanks :-)
Sometimes it has to do with expectations. People that expect to have a bad experience with a real estate agent or anybody will put a wall when they approach you. I read body language and can pick these people out of emails and phone calls and I will try to keep my difference. I refuse to let them change my positive attitude with their bad attitude.
Russell this a very insightful post that is valid in every community, especially these days. I believe that as customers we do not want to be taken for granted and it would be wise for people in business everywhere to remember the concept of good service and put it into everyday practice! I think this is especially true for us a Realtors and agree that it is the most important thing that sets us apart form the competition. Thank you for a very good reminder!
Marian That is a great description "an age-old, time-tested, principle that works" and you are right about how we act when in public because we do not know who our next customer will be! Thank you for adding to this discussion!
Gail you always write the nicest comments and I completely agree that "as long as those scales are nicely tipped to the good side means we're doing something right...and still room for improvement." I wrote this post as part of the carnival of content and just thought it was relevant to all us. Both as Realtors and as customers ourselves!
Dee Deethat is so true that expectations can color ones judgment. I often see this when I hold an open house. People are very guarded when they first arrive and then I put them at ease! I like you attitude of not letting someones negative behavior change your outlook and actions!
Anne well put, it is amazing to me when dealing with any agent or business that has an attitude that they are doing us a favor by simply giving us their time!
Good morning "Featured Man"! Glad to see your post on this. I agree with you 1000%. Good service is hard to find these days. That said, those that give great service to their clients will stand head and shoulders above the rest! BTW-I can see you at the top!!
Betina
Russell - there is nothing like customer service, and I believe it is what brings people coming back. Great post Russell.
I love this article, Russell. It's excellent.
Russell,
Good friendly knowledgeable service is always welcome no matter what age...both us us have been around long enough to know that it is the cornerstone of our business!
I forgot to say that as an "old" English teacher, those compliments from me are rare.
Russell I almost missed this because you have not posted anything new in awhile! I am teasing you but this is yet another one of your well thought out posts and it's timely for people everywhere. When service is the hallmark of any business it needs to be practiced in a GENUINE manner every day! Keep up the great work and past more often because you "almost" always have something great to add to the the community!
Russell, even when you are serious you write the most entertaining posts. In my business service sets me apart from my competitionand it's only through my efforts to listen to my clients needs and follow up that I can stay ahead of my competition! Excellent advice to both agents and customers or any business for that matter my friend!
Good stuff Russell. Especially during this time of trouble and uncertainty within our country. We need to show support, compassion, caring and consideration and to hold ourselves to a higher standard with our relationships. Whether it be the client you have had for 10 years or the guy that just walked in off the street, people need something more from the contact. This country needs an attitude adjustment in a major way and it starts with how we treat one another on a daily basis. Keep up the good work.
Russell,
Great blog. It's nice to acknowledge the great service many of our community stores give to us. Keep up the blogging.
Betina No features lately but I have been too busy to try and post so I am getting back to it now! BYW, I like nearing the top and hovering there but noticed that Donna finally moved here we now have the top 2 in the state here in Austin so I will be happy to just float around in the top 7 or 8. Hey we still need to go to Dirty's for lunch sometime soon!
Sharon It's so true and it has been mentioned over and over through the comments that it is a responsibility that we need to remember to stay in business!
Suzy I am very flattered and appreciate your comments and compliments too!
Gena You are so right and one of the main reasons for longevity in this business is attention to the details of providing good service to our clients!
Suzy (again) you are cracking me up and I do appreciate the compliment...especially from you! Thanks again!
Allysoun I have been busy trying to stir up business so have not had the time to devote to blogging. Actually this subject came up because one of my old clients referred me and said that I was very attentive and responsive. I appreciate that and also enjoy it when I receive that kind of service anywhere I do business! You know, you are correct, I do manage to get a lighter look at things most of the time even when I am being serious!
Lynne I know that you are an incredibly hard worker and have developed your business based on you strong attention to detail and the service aspect of how you help your customers. You are a great example for all of us!
Steven Now more than ever, the main thing that will help any business in this economic downturn is to remember service, service, and service! The essential is that fact that it will keep us going until better times. My business is built on trust and good service and hopefully it will be the deciding factor in any potential client's decision to work with me! Thanks for dropping by!
Susan I always appreciate it when my clients acknowledge me by sending referrals and I like to tell people about the great places in our community that is worth their patronage! As a matter of fact I plan to do some Localism posts in the near future to highlight some of my favorite establishments!
Your right about friendly service, is is remembered. Texas is a friendly place, but s l o w. Great service is always appreciated no matter where. Funny too, about the friend being 26 years old and remembering service. LOL
Russell she sounds like a character. I wish I was a fly on the wall so I could have seen your face. Good to hear you recovered quickly. A great personality does go a long way in business.
Russell, I left a comment here earlier but we also sent the link to some of our associates and they thoroughly enjoyed you take on the idea of service and also the responsibility of being an good customer! Great article with your own particular outlook, thanks!
Lyn I thought that was funny too since her perception of "the good old days" was so recent. And again you are correct that in some parts of Texas we are S L O W at times, if you know the expression, "I am fixin' to do something" you definitely understand what I mean!
Bill she is an exceptional character but you cannot beat her irrepressible energy and charm. She is so quick on her feet and since she has usually been there for a couple of hours before most of us arrive, she is wide awake and raring' to go! She and I along with her family have become good friends!
Scott Thank you for send my blog to others, it's nice to know someone is looking at my blog. I do believe that customer service is a two way street and basic courtesies always apply.. Thank you again for your comments!
Great article Russell. We have built our business here on exactly these principles, but it takes some doing.
People dont seem to have written sets of service standards anymore.
When I am my normal Texas friendly self here on Cape Cod, people don't believe it. They want gruff. I just smile. :^)
Wez Tnaks for your compliment, It's true that many companies do not have a written set of standards and it would be helpful, if only as a reminder to do what most of us have been taught all along!
HeathI know what you mean, our friendliness is disarming at times but no matter where we go, it eventually get over to those we meet that its GENUINE! Thanks for dropping by!
So true, Russell. Good customer service is elementary, really and it starts from the bottom up! I will go out of my way to frequent a business that respects others and treats customers fairly. It really does make a big difference in all professions.
Russell,
This made me laugh, especially the "child support" part. :)
Mike in Tucson
Russell, me again! This is such a great article and you should include it in your info packet that you take in listing appointments! I know what your going to say about "print" info but you still use it and it's an effective way to share more about yourself other than the usual facts, numbers, production etc. It's a nice glimpse at a part of your personality!
Hi Russell,
And that's why I love (and support) small, local businesses. They know you and appreciate you and your business.
Shari I like that point that it starts at the personal level and it's true that it applies to every business including especially our real estate profession!
Mike She caught me off guard and it was very funny. She is so sharp and very witty that many people stop by to visit in a friendly environment as well as shop!
Allysoun I never thought of that! I might print out a few of my blog posts and add them to my listing book! Thanks again for your comments!
Cynthia I feel like that is a universal appeal in any business and these days it's as important as ever!
Now, more than ever, in this current economic downturn it's important to patronize the folks who practice the Golden Rule and truly work for the customer!
Hi Russell,
I completely agree. Bad businesses deserve to fail. Let's help the good ones survive, and even thrive!
Bruce Good to see you! I know you share the same ethics and also a dedication to do a great job for your clients and customers everywhere! Thanks for visiting!
Hi Russell! Hey, there's really nothing that I can add to this conversation but, AMEN! Survival of the fittest, right!?
Happy Valentine's Day...
Debe I truly appreciate and thanks for the lovely Valentine!
Hi Russell...just another GREAT ONE...your businesses have to love you. You do such a service to them and what a great way to show how much you appreciate them, by sharing with others about the great job they do.
At the beginning of my career I worked as an office manager and trainer in a large grocery store chain...back when they actually had baggers who not only CAREFULLY bagged the groceries but either lifted the bags into the arms of the customers or carried them out to the car. Those were the days...what a sharp difference today..in a small town we really don't have a lot of options. We have 2 major chain grocery stores. As a trainer can you imagine how nuts it drives me when I see cashiers carrying on conversations about her date at the football game Friday night, and with the cashier on the register beside her ...completely ignoring her customer....grit my teeth... On the other side I have heard customers
scream at the cashiers because of price increases and waiting time in line...like it is their fault..they too get their fair share of rudeness. If I can say I have a real problem with attitude, nastiness, and rudeness...it doesn't belong in a business or what the heck....anywhere any time.
When business create a great customer service they create an atmosphere where people feel not only welcomed but appreciated ....it is a joy to work and a joy to shop......It is simple...People just need to be NICE to each other!!!! Talk about going on and on I apologize...but I can so relate to this post Great interesting Post Now I need to go back and finish reading the comments only got to the firt 90. LOL
June Thats really a wild coincidence. My family was in the grocery business for nearly 70 years so I can truly identify with all of your comments! It's so true and is a universal concept. I was trying to write about a subject that affects all businesses and all consumers in all parts of the country without tooting my own horn (so to speak) but it is one of the most important aspects of our profession as real estate agents for sure!I am always amazed at the arrogance of some of the mega producers who treat business as a numbers proposition while forgetting that we are in the "people" business! Thanks again for adding to this conversation!
Hi Russell That is wild..my family too. My dad was raised in the family grocery store and delivered groceries as a little guy door to door for his parent's.
His mom ( my grandmother had the first grocery store with an in house bakery and drug store...she was way beyond her time...so was my dad. She also built the first shopping plaza ( it is still standing built in the 50's ) The whole family was very business oriented, a car dealer, a real estate brokerage and a grocery store.& plaza ..covered it all. That is so interesting. I guess customer service has to be in our genes ......that why we are so into the importance of customer service BTW that is also why Kurt Warner has a little piece of my heart...there some sort of grocery store bond there LOL..BTW to this day when i check out through a cashier I ( in my thoughts evaluate how she handles the customers ) and when I find one that does a commendable job I make sure I acknowledge and commend her for doing so ....( it is rare though) just can't take the grocery out of me even though it has been years.
Russell - Stopped in after you mentioned this on my blog and just had to comment - you're so right on this one! I will go out of my way to stop some places, because of the level of service I receive. When I was in the band, we stuck with the same merch guy for years, even though we had offers of better pricing in many instances, we knew we got service out of them (he would often drive out to shows to drop off new merchandise). He was friendly, outgoing, and knew each of us on a personal level. Because of that, we remained loyal to him over the years. Its just like real estate - serve them well and they will return.
Russell what a hilarious story. Your friend is very funny and it sounds like you have met your match!!! It is so important to us in real estate to remember the basics of good service. It is the only thing that separates us because all we have to sell is our knowledge and expertise within our market areas. Like any business there are varying degrees of competence and I believe that it carries over into the realm of knowledge that can translate into service that is not only good but exemplary! I know your clients enjoy both your expertise as well as your personality!
June people like us who grow up around the grocery business truly understand the value of thrift, hard work and impeccable customer service! My grandfather was a salesman for National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) back in 195 and saw a new type of self serve grocery store. He bought into a franchise and when the depression hit, he had two store while the franchise collapsed. He survived by bartering and was one of the first to have a produce and meat section. Over the year the company prospered however, by 1991 it would have taken a huge influx of cash to expand so my Father sold the Grocery arm of the business but kept all of the buildings and warehouses and some of the parts of shopping centers. You are so right customer service is in our genes and a way of life. I am so glad to have met you and learned more about you. Have a great week my friend!
Matt Thank you so much for your comment. It really is a fact of life and business that we will trade where were are treated fairly and with a level of service that exceeds the basics. It's what make s my clients loyal to me and like you, the reason I am so loyal to local businesses and individuals with whom I do business here in Austin!
Erin It truly takes all kinds and she has built a loyal clientele even with several other convenience stores opening nearby. I appreciate your compliment and do believe that I would rather work with fewer (but good quality clients) than go the mega agent route and treat people like numbers. There are plenty of companies and agents around who are more than willing to do that!
Hi Russell! You obviously hit a hot topic button here! We have a small Hardware Store in LaPorte, a town about 20 miles away. When I go Hardware Hanks, I'm greeted at the door, they ask me what I need, take me to the aisle, and offer expert advice if I'm not sure about a certain product !! Even though I have been there several times, I always leave totally amazed at their level of service. It makes such a huge difference!
Hi Mary I was trying to write about something that applies to all of us no matter where we live or what our profession. I have been pleasantly surprised at the number of really great comments like yours that point out how critically important "good service" really is! Thanks for stopping by!
Good Morning Russell-I hope you are doing well this beautiful Saturday morning. Thought I'd go back to this particular post because it really tickled my funny bone besides ya told me to come back any time. You see my friend I come back time and time again for the great customer service you provide with your wonderful caring self. Who would not want to come back for that kind of friendship, cameraderie and good old hearty laughter from my friend the silver fox. Friend EXTRAORDINAIRE!!!!!
BTW-I love it when you get so excited about being the first on what I post. You gave me a wonderful chuckle at seeing your handsome face in the morning. You are such a warm, funny and wonderful fellow and one I'm happy to have as a friend. I'll certainly come back now. Have a special weekend.
You think the WOO HOO works the same if I'm the last on one of your posts like it does when you are the first. i didn't get a chance to comment to everybody on yesterday's post but wanted to drop in this morning and say a special thank you for being YOU and for being a wonderful & fun support of what I post. Until next time-Always keep smiling that wonderful smile. :-)
Hi there PAT, Thanks so much for visiting again and thanks for the kudos, I really appreciate that! I am definately a fan of your blog too and agree that we are just the kind of folks that we we enjoy...I know that sounds funny, but I do enjyy knowing and doing business with people that share the same ethics and if possible the same sense of fun too! Have a good weekend my friend!
Russell, You always brighten my day, in person & through your blogging. This is beautiful blog, I'm sending it AND the video to my children! Keep up the happiness & congratulations on your latest award: 25 gallons donated to the Blood Bank. What an achievement.
Hi Susan, I appreciate you dropping by! I knew you would like the video on my other post and I know your kids will think it's funny too! Thanks for the compliment on my Blood platelet donations too!
Good service is priceless. And it's our primary product - Houses are just the avenue.
Margaret well put! We all have the same "inventory" but our "product is indeed SERVICE! Thanks for stopping by!
Good post Russell. Too bad so many industries can't remember what Customer Service is:
"Customer service is the ability to provide a service or product in the way that it has been promised"
Seems simple enough and I believe you definately have the hang of it.
Rick That has to be one of the best definitions ever concerning customer service! It's what I had in mind when I was writing this post because it affects everyone no matter where you live or what your business! Thanks for the compliment too!
Terrific post Russel. I love shopping here in Lewisburg WV because they are small and local businesses, and they make you feel right at home when you walk in.
Rebecca, thanks for dropping by, I think this is universal and the reason that good service often wins out when offering any product!
Hi Russell, congratulations on your recognition fow this excellent article. Twice in ONE week, a First Place and an Honorable mention! Very well done!
Jeannette, thanks, I feel honored that I was chosen out of so many great posts. The quality of blogging here is so good and it's inspiring to be among some of the very best in the business!
Russell along with ethics this is the most important aspect we provide our customers! Good post and a funny story too!
Patty, thanks for stopping by, working with you I know that you live by your words!
This was/is a great post and it deserves a "featured" gold star. I don't know how this one got over looked. SoI am re-blogging you for good measure. If any blog deserved a star it is this one.
Hey Betina! Thanks so much for finding this in my archives and also for the reblog! I do apperciate the kudos and I think this was an entry in a contest but dont recall. Have a good weekend, I am doing an open house in Rob Roy on the Laje today and I think you are probably working too! have a good one!
My wise old grandmother taught me that customer service is simply "FREE HELP," so if you LOVE to provide FREE HELP, you'll never be wanting for business.
LOVE, FREE, HELP.
Three of the most powerful words in the English language, and they are four-letter words, too!
Russel you AND your Grandmother have the best attitude and I have to agree that service is certainly tied to your definitions!