Wednesday, May 18, 2011

It Makes Me Grit My Teeth

Note to Self: NEXT TIME YOU SEE A LONG LINE AT A CHECK OUT, TURN AROUND AND WALK AWAY.
So there are signals of problems, might be technical, might be competence, doesn't really matter though, pay attention to the signals and save yourself some grief. 
When I pushed my cart toward the only open checkout and saw a line I proceeded ahead anyway.  Mistake.  Big Mistake.
I mean, seriously, the phone is ringing and this clerk refuses to pick it up.  She can't scan the products and so is trying multiple times and then typing in the bar code number.  REALLY?
It's absolutely unacceptable.  This employee and the manager to whom she reports should both be fired now, escorted off the property, and asked to never return again.  They are both incompetent.  They are both costing this business money and goodwill.  And the General Manager should fear for her job too because allowing this crap is unacceptable.
It is so easy to stand out in this world of mediocrity and incompetence.  Just do YOUR basics.  Do them well every single time and you will stand out as Brilliant!  If you can't do your basics, then get out and find another business where you can perform.  Don't make me go "postal"!

Monday, May 2, 2011

Purpose Begets Excellence

I read an injunction by Linda Byers Swindling this morning that rang out to me as I guiltily admitted to myself that sometimes I just phone it in. 
Sometimes I am not at the top of my game; I am doing things unconsciously because I've done them so many times before. 
I have never heard of Linda before, don't really know what she does or who she is.  I don't even care.  Her instructions don't require that I care because they fall into the realm of principles.  And principles are things that are the basis, they are the underpinnings, they are foundations to build upon.
The point of asking myself the 3 questions helps me set my stage, empathize with my client/customer, and be prepared to be my excellent self and not just my "show up" self.
I like it.
Here's her quote:
Before attempting to help any client, ask yourself these three questions:
1. Why do people buy my products or services?
2. What is the result if I do not help them?
3. How could I improve their experience with my company?