Do you take your job seriously? Perhaps it’s just a way to fill the time until you can do something you really enjoy. But if you like your job, it usually shows.
It’s amazing how many people fail to realize that the way they do their job reflects on others they work alongside. If you work in a shop or with a group, it seems like your fellow workers should be treated like friends. If one of them has a more difficult task than you, do you take the time to give them a hand? You should not jeopardize your job. But if you can help them, they will appreciate it and return the help when you may need it.
If your job is one that requires relieving a worker during shift change, remember to recognize: their time is just as valuable as yours. If you are running late, give them a call or text and let them know when to expect you. When you arrive, be sure to thank them for covering for you. Someday in the future, you may need someone to help you out. And, if it’s known how you assisted, you should get the same consideration.
I have been working at a location where we share time shifts and we all try to help each other out when events come up that make it necessary to change our work schedules. It’s just good to know your fellow workers will help you if you need it.
If your job involves working with the public, your actions are right out there for everyone to observe. If you work in a restaurant as a server, your attitude is very important. It can sure make a difference in your total pay at the end of a day’s work. Tips of 20 percent or even more are the usual amount given these days. Tipping used to be intended to reward good service, but today it is expected no matter what the service level or attitude is. Some people, however, will withhold a good tip if they feel all was not just as they wished it to be.
I think having a good memory is probably helpful to a wait staff person. What kind of liquor is stocked at the bar, the type of cocktails that are available and maybe even remembering customer’s names? I recently went to a place called Grandma’s Kitchen with some friends and the waitress asked for our names as she took our orders. She followed up with calling each of us by name when she presented our meals. A big smile is always a sure way to a person’s pocketbook and I am sure it makes the day go by more stress-free and great for your customers also.
Retail sales is a job held by many and I find if someone smiles brightly — the gals do it more than the guys, I am eager to discuss my needs. Even the people who check me out at Wally’s make it a better day when they give me a big smile. At my grocery store, if I need something, the people insist on walking along with me to find it. Now that’s good service and shows me they like what they are doing.
Service people usually like their jobs. My electrician always shows up with a big smile and we chat for a while. The same thing goes for the fella who helps me out with jobs I just can’t do anymore or just don’t want to. One day my refrigerator quit and I called for service from an appliance parts store in Bad Axe. I was told a serviceman would call and let me know when he could arrive. Within an hour he came, put a part on and was on his way, totally cheerful the whole time. I was aware of what the cost of the part was because I used to work in that trade so I knew I got a fair price for the job. It was really great to find a place that will actually fix old appliances not suggest you buy a new one.
Another outstanding service company I rely on every fall as I prepare to head south is J&B Heating in Pigeon. Last year, the night before they were to arrive to do my furnace check, their shop burned down. Imagine my surprise when bright and early the next morning, at the appointed time, they showed up to take care of my needs. As I see it, those folks are some who really like their jobs and are devoted to their customers.
I really need to share one more great experience I have enjoyed. I was looking for a washer and dryer. They both gave it up after about 20 years of hard labor. I looked at one while at Lowe’s, but I decided to look closer to home. I headed to Thumb Hardware in Elkton where I had purchased a stove a couple years ago. What a great experience. No pressure just a great attitude that was all about helping me out with my needs. I have always endorsed “shop local” and my experience once again proved it’s a good choice.