Customers also need to go the extra smile

Everyone was smiling, wearing the colour green and gold proudly. A number of vehicles displayed flags and yes there were even a few vehicles displaying England's flag.

I contacted a bank today, not going to mention which one and I received service on a level very seldom experienced these days. I asked this employee for their email address in order for me to send her a compliment and she responded

"It is very nice to have a client who recognises the hard work and dedication we as consultants put in to our jobs."

It took a few seconds out of my busy schedule to send this person a compliment for a job well done. How often does this happen in your company. When was the last time you told an employee or colleague that they are doing a good job or just use a term such as "Well done"? When was the last time someone told you that you were doing a good job? We all thrive on positive feedback and deserve a pat on the back every
now and then.

Let us take the positive out of winning the world cup and put it into the service that you give to your internal and external customers. I challenge you to use the tips below to make a difference.

1. To your colleagues - say to the person next to you, "Thank you for everything you do for me, it is really appreciated".
2. To your manager - "Thank you for your support".
3. Manager to employee - "Thank you for being part of our team" or just occasionally when an employee interacts with you or gives you feedback say "Well done".
4. To your customers - "Say thank you and enjoy the rest of your day".
5. Customers to Suppliers - The next time you interact with a supplier tell them "Thank you for supplying us" or when you enter a store, deal with a teller at a bank or retail store, or even walking past a security guard in a shopping centre, greet them by simply saying "Hello". You will be amazed with the friendly smile that you get in return.

Keep the rugby spirit alive and work towards making South Africa a service leader of note.