I have said for a long time that customer service is all but dead in America. Instead of listing examples of poor customer service, I am going to list a recent example of wonderful customer service and draw a conclusion.
We can learn from good and bad examples. Both can be good teachers. I am reminded of a time in 9th grade when I was walking down a hallway. A teacher was standing outside his room and asked me to pick up a candy bar wrapper (not mine) that was on the floor in front of him. I did, but to this day I think he would taught me more by saying nothing and picking it up himself. Three years later someone set an example in my presence, and I have not littered since. I am about to share with you the best example of customer service I have seen in a very long time!
Each year I try, by way of a small gift, to acknowledge those who have gone out of their way to support Elder Source financially. This year an idea came to mind, and after a lot of research I chose a store in our local mall. My schedule has been crazy for the last nine weeks that my wife has been in ICU, but from start to finish Palmetto Moon has proven to be a company of exemplary customer service. I don’t have the space to list all that they have done, but I will say Palmetto Moon’s commitment to customer service is unlike any I have seen in a number years. From upper level management, to the local store management, to the employees, all have demonstrated a willingness to go above and beyond. So, I highly recommend them to you.
Regardless of your age or station in life, regardless of whether you work for yourself or for a large corporation, qualities like honesty, integrity, and, yes, old-fashioned customer service are still noticed and rewarded today. Our senior population may not be as tech-savvy as their grandchildren, but they do remember when a person’s word was as binding as a signed contract. If you want to learn about technology ask a young person, but if want to learn about life ask one who has not only seen it, but also has lived to talk about it - if we would but simply take the time to listen.
Stan Means
Elder Source Senior Ministries
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