The brainchild of Helen Szemerei, the website was launched in February and has already attracted a good deal of attention. It celebrates what businesses are doing right. Companies that go beyond in their efforts to provide excellent service receive accolades from their customers - providing an authentic, honest and very public record for all to see.
Szemerei explains why we need to focus more on the 'ups' when it comes to service delivery. "South Africa needs to attract international investors and what better way than to display that we have much to recommend when it comes to business? Brands love positive feedback and, by drawing attention to the good service standards provided by so many companies and organisations, we are creating a culture of promoting as opposed to breaking down. "
Sylvia Shutte, MD of Stratitude, the agency that created and manages the site, agrees. "Negative news does nothing to instil faith in us as a nation. When business flourishes, our economy flourishes. The knock-on effect is more jobs, increased confidence and a better attitude. There is plenty to be proud of in the South African business sector."
Companies have the opportunity to post the compliments they have received over the years - such emails and letters serve little purpose sitting in a file - now there is an ideal space to display them.
"Our clients are flattered when we approach them to share their experiences of service excellence because they understand the impact their feedback has when it comes to encouraging positivity," says Christelle Fourie. Fourie is the MD of MUA Insurance Acceptances, a company that has participated in the HiHelen initiative from pilot stage to official roll out. "Our showcase page on the website is great - it allows us to display the many service compliments we've received over the years."
The site is user-friendly and easy to navigate, which encourages even the most technophobic user. This project is set to create a shift in perspective for both consumers (who can post compliments free) and companies. Another advantage is that by downloading the site's widget, companies can pull compliments from the site, as they are posted (in real time) onto their own company websites.
"HiHelen is refreshing, it's robust, it's real - and good news deserves centre stage for a change," concludes Szemerei. For more information, go to www.hihelen.co.za.
