At the age of 16, I along with many others entered the workforce. For a large majority of my jobs, I’ve ended up working in customer service. From working in a restaurant, photography, and a call center, I may not be the most experienced but I have had experiences to last a lifetime in regards to customer service. While each of these jobs have differed significantly, from the environments and requirements, I have discovered a common theme across the board. Words are powerful beyond belief and one kind word can change everything.
I’ve learned from my experiences that people are interesting. Personalities are a different story but how people treat others is astonishing. Have you ever had to endure someone yelling at you for something that was an accident or had no control over? Let me tell you. It’s an awful feeling and it consists of self-control worth more than a minimum wage base pay. In addition, as a customer consider some things are left unsaid. I get it. You’re not happy with a service you’ve received but there is no reason, ever for there to be verbal abuse. Not sure what I’m talking about? Verbal abuse is defined and described as a negative defining statement told to the victim or about the victim, or by withholding any response, thereby defining the target as non-existent. Fact: You can portray your anger, or disapproval without being disrespectful, or yelling and cussing.
I understand that there are times as a customer and there are times in which you are may be frustrated but also understand that those assisting you are only doing their job. Customer relations employees are there to assist you in all of your needs. With that being said, why berate and belittle these same people beyond a breaking point? Also a fact: I’ll be more willing to help you resolve an issue if you talk to me like I am a human. Although I am an employee, I am a person, a human capable of feeling emotions. Your words can similarly uplift and encourage as they can damage and wound, but I’m sure you are aware of this.
The old adage that one kind word can change someone’s entire day is true. I repeat, one kind word can change someone’s day. Especially in customer service positions. I’ve found that despite the crazy stories millions of customer service employees can emasculate into books, one kind word or small smile can literally make an employee’s day. It could be as simple as thank you, honestly. You, yes you, can not only change someone’s shift but their outlook on the day. Your kind words can alleviate a situation before you or the day better for customers following you.
As you’ve read this I hope you considered how you’ve treated employees in the past and how, if necessary, you change that treatment in the future. Regardless of where someone works, financial status or bank statements, everyone deserves to be treated with respect. I was raised to greet the janitor the same way, I’d greet the CEO, with kind words.
