Saying hello means more than you think.
This morning I went into a store that I'd been wanting to visit for the past several weeks. I was waiting for a time when I would not be rushed and could take my sweet time browsing the racks of clothing.
I walked in and was immediately greeted by racks and racks of clothing, all systematically organized by size and color. However, the rainbows of pants, skirts and shirts were the only thing that greeted me. I counted at least five employees in this small shop. I suddenly felt disappointed instead of happy.
Before I go on, I should give you a little background - over nearly 20 years, I worked in five retail stores and one restaurant. I sold clothes and books. I led guests to their dinner tables. I rang up sales at countless registers. I was a manager and a store event planner. Through all of that I learned and practiced quality customer service. It's not hard. Especially if it's, I don't know, YOUR JOB.
So that's why I get so worked up about poor customer service. Why are you working there, amongst wares to sell to people who want to buy them, if you can't do your job? Talk to the people! Say hello! The lack of good customer service is purely based on laziness. AND IT DRIVES ME NUTS.
So today, while I looked around the store with five employees and no vocal cords, I thought about all the other shops with workers who not only greet me but start friendly conversations. I am so much happier in their shops. They are so much nicer. I would much rather give them my money. So I walked out.
I run my photography business with the same aim for top customer service as I have throughout my two decades in retail. This time around, when I succeed, I don't just sell an extra pair of jeans. I come away with a happy client and maybe even a new friend! And hopefully that happy client will tell all their friends about the kind and talented photographer that they just worked with. And then it starts all over with someone new.
I may be one person, but I happily and enthusiastically greet each and every one of my clients, potential clients, past clients and even just fans of my work (hi mom!). And let me make this clear - I don't do it because I HAVE to. I do it because I WANT to. It's real, people. Truly genuine.
When you hire me, the entire experience is personal and friendly. From the first phone call, to the session to the delivery (yes, hand delivery!) of your prints and canvases. I strive to make your experience with Stories Framed Photography comfortable and happy.
So right here and right now, I am sending you a virtual hello and a digital high five. You know, just because you're already here and it would be rude not to.
I'd love to see you in person, too. If you're so inclined to test out my manners in real life, click the button below and we will make it happen.
P.S. For the record, I was in that store for 14 minutes. The only employee to speak to me only did so in order to pass me in a narrow aisle. And then there was the one who said goodbye as I walked out the door.
