Spend Your Money Where The Service Is

When was the last time you really thought about where you spend your money?

I'm not talking about your budget...I'm talking about doing business with companies that really value your business.  You know, the few companies who take the time to teach their people how to really treat a customer.

Think about this for a minute.

• How much do you spend at your local grocery store in a year?
• How about the gas station?
• How about the doctor's office?  (Don't forget to include what your insurance pays)

Are you surprised?

Some of the smallest companies provide the absolute best service.  Perhaps it's the place you stop in the morning for your coffee.  You go in, the coffee is fresh and hot, it's neat and tidy, the cashier calls you by name and gives you a big smile (even if she's really busy)...and then she even takes the time to thank you and wish you a good day.  Not a bad way to start the day.

Then there are the large companies...not all, but plenty.  You see the mission and vision statements plastered across the walls.  The employee lounge areas are decorated with posters that say something about "quality" and "service".  Yet when you reach customer service or a check out lane, the employee seems lifeless...no eye contact...no enthusiasm...and virtually no acknowledgment that YOU (the customer) exists.  And don't even think about inconveniencing the person for a price check.

If this story sounds familiar, it just may be time for you to take some action.  I dare you to take this challenge.

1. Make a list of all the companies you do business with.  I mean all of them...from your handyman, to your financial institution, to your magazine subscriptions.
2. Now, go through your list and rate your level of satisfaction for each one.  Give 5's to the companies that have earned a "very satisfied" rating.  Give 1's to those that have earned a "not satisfied" rating.
3. Now review your ratings. 
4. If there are any 1's or 2's, take your business elsewhere, immediately.
5. Anybody who gets a 3 should be given a yellow flag.  If you choose to stay with them, give them some feedback and review them again in 6 months.
6. If you've got 4's and 5's, good for you.  Next time you're in, take a minute to tell them what you appreciate about doing business there.
7. Repeat the process yearly.

My point...you exchange your hard earned dollars for service, and you deserve the best.  Stand up and exercise your power to choose.

Let me know how you do!