You have a lot of power. You might not think so, but it’s true.
Why? You interact with the public.
It doesn’t matter if your version of customer service is cleaning up after someone, serving someone food, assisting in medical facilities, servicing someone’s vehicle, tailoring someone’s clothes, providing assistance over the phone, or checking someone’s safety harness. The way you interact with customers impacts their day, and maybe their life.
We hear stories on the news about random acts of kindness or particularly kind people who’ve made a difference in their community just by being nice. It’s the gas station worker who tells jokes or always has a genuine smile on their face while they help you. It’s the medical assistant who is both gentle and thorough while telling you hilarious stories to keep you relaxed. It’s the fast food worker who graciously helped walk your grandmother out to the car when her new hip started acting up. When people go out of their way to help, it sends a message. It shows people that there is kindness, there is altruism, and it makes them want to pass it on.
See, all you have to do is notice what someone needs, be nice, and help them.
Maybe they are a little down and could use a compliment. Maybe they are extremely quiet and could use some small talk. Maybe they are in an extreme rush and need super efficient service with a smile. If they see how you’re putting in effort to make their day better, it can change their attitude for the day. You benefit as well from these interactions. Sure, there will be some people who don’t vocalize their appreciation and there will be an occasional sourpuss. However, the majority of people are grateful. Some can’t believe how great you are, and they will tell you how great you are. They may even offer you a tip or some other token of appreciation because you made a difference to them. As someone who works in customer service, I get a huge boost from people who appreciate my efforts and from knowing I’ve made someone’s day better. So go out there, customer service worker, and use your power for good! It’ll make your day!
