Published: August 12, 2007 12:33 am            

Customer service at its finest

A few weeks ago I visited one of the local retailers to look at their selection of business suits. The salesperson was very cordial and helpful as I asked her for directions to the restroom. This lady didn’t tell me where the restroom was located — she walked me across the store all the way to the ladies room.

I walked out with a couple of new garments and a very positive impression of that store. Why? Because I received great customer service while I was there.

I then proceeded to stop at a popular chain restaurant for lunch. The lady behind the counter greeted me with a genuine smile, politely took my order as though she was happy to help, looked me in the eye, and gave me what I considered a sincere thank you.

Once again, I left with a positive impression and the full intention of returning to that restaurant next time I dine for lunch.



A change for the better



I lived in Meridian five years ago, and I don’t remember the customer service at that time being that memorable. In fact, I can recall more than a few instances of less than adequate service. I guess that’s why my experiences a few weeks ago seemed so out of the ordinary.

This experience got me thinking: what did these two people do to make the service they provided seem so out of the ordinary? The answer was obvious and simple: they focused their attention on me, the customer. They weren’t preoccupied with chatting with co-workers. They didn’t see me as an interruption of their work. They didn’t act as though they were simply going through the motions without emotion.

Instead, they acted as though they were really happy to help me. They made me feel as though I was their top priority. They looked me in the eye and sincerely thanked me for giving them the opportunity to shine.

Then, I started thinking about our businesses right here in our area. I think we have good customer service here, for the most part. I also think we have room for improvement. We can provide great customer service that gives people a positive impression of Lauderdale County and keeps people shopping locally.

Think about the last time you received outstanding customer service. Was it from a business right here in Lauderdale County? Just think what would happen if all of our area businesses worked on improving customer service.

Of course, I have to include myself in this call to action. As the publisher of your local newspaper, I am going to look at ways that we, at The Meridian Star, can kick our customer service up a notch.

Hopefully, the next time I write about customer service, it will include several stories about great service from local businesses. And, hopefully, you will think of local businesses when you recall the last time you received outstanding service. You may even think of The Meridian Star.



Crystal Dupré is publisher of

The Meridian Star. E-mail her at cdupre@themeridianstar.com.

        

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