Saluting Fathers

This post is a salute to all the fathers who led the charge that created memorable experiences for the children of the world.  When you think of a father or significance man in your life, name the aspects of your life that are forever changed by his presence.

Here are some that were shared in a special Father's Day program recently.........

In addition to discipline, my father taught me that: Tilling soil is the first preparation in planting a garden; chivalry is alive and well and in his hands; there is value in women's sports as well as men's; policemen represent helping professionals; he knows who my friends are; saving money could someday save me; painting a window can give a house a facelift;  I matter; in a team effort, someone must lead; I am balanced by his presence; to respect myself and authority; his guidance is much needed in the family; yard work can be fun; time is more important than money; the truth is infallible; and gentleness is a big part of macho behavior.

My father taught me how to: Set goals for my money;  love my mother; to love my siblings; start a 401k account and leave it there; drive a stick shift; build a tree house; cook on the grill; check my car for maintenance; skate; cook eggs many different ways; endear the family with stories of yesteryear; punishment can be as simple as disappointing him; and fathers come in many shapes, sizes and colors.

Life is better when his love is unconditional.

Service Rewards Civility

What is the most effective approach to discuss an issue that you may have with a product or service received from a “for profit company”? 

The first person that manages a complaint is a service attendant. Service attendants are those people on the front line of companies that just “aim to please”.  Let’s examine what typically happens when we call in or walk in a complaint in the following situation.

We discover that there is a problem with a service or merchandise that is paid by our hard earned, often stretched dollar.  

Early in your decision to contact the servicing company, decide your desired outcome.  You may be asked, “What results would you like to see?”  A reasonable resolution, considering your rights and the warranty and guidelines associated with the product or service.

Formulate a clear description of the problem before calling or going into a service center.  Clarity of the problem will set the stage for smoother interaction. 

Also, a key to success is “calm”.  Calm is the posture that turns cream into butter. 

Even when you meet with an attendant who is abrasive or curt, your calm will help remove the apparent dis-ease that they bring to you.

Next, follow the process that the attendant suggests.  Cooperation and calm sends the attendant the message that you are patient and willing to work with them to solve the issue.  When we ask for help with a problem, we must allow them to do their job.  If a question is asked, answer it. You will be taken more seriously.  Also, be prepared to accept mistakes you may have made with the product or service.

When a solution is offered, you will either like it or not.   If you like the suggested resolve, that is great.  If not, ask to negotiate with the company toward your satisfaction. Explain, calmly, the problems caused by the malfunction. Tell them what you expect and would like to see happen. 

The attendant may or may not be able to satisfy your request.  Ask to speak to a manager at the next level.  Often, management must authorize decisions made beyond the ordinary.  Remain calm throughout the process.

Should your issue remain unresolved after speaking with local management, seek a corporate contact.  You should be prepared to write to them, requesting reconsideration.   The approach remains the same.  State the problem; state other complications the problem caused (i.e., wasted time and money); state your history with the company; then, suggest how you may be satisfied. 

Even if you are dissatisfied, avoid abrasive communication.  Displays of anger or loud outburst rarely created desired outcomes.  Cordiality goes a long way when negotiating with a company that has the power to give you the satisfaction you feel you deserve.  In the end, you will feel better that you did not lose control, remained humble, but firm, keeping your dignity and your health.

Each time I have used this method, I have received optimum satisfaction.  Service rewards civility.

Career Exploration

Today in church, the minister had us to do several activities.  We were asked to greet someone in the morning service that we did not know and talk to them for a couple of minutes.  I met two young ladies, separately, who are 26 and 12.  Immediately my career prep questions surfaced.  They both spoke of a desire to do something in their future of which they had no experience.  I went into advice mode; however, instead of giving advice, I made an effort to inspire introspection.  So I gave them ideas to help them figure a path toward career satisfaction. 

One place to start is by asking key questions for the 26 year old that wants to own a business. Does she want to offer a service or merchandise? Can she identify gaps in the needs or wants of the public (potential customers)?  Can she arrange to fulfill the need with regard to resources and location? Finally, what would she enjoy offering others that would fulfill their needs?

It is important that the 12 year old begin to explore careers.  She thinks that she wants to be a sports commentator.  A great summer endeavor for her would be to begin researching education requirements to enter the career field.  Then she should interview a person employed in the area of her interest.  Spending a day or two shadowing the person could follow the interview.  Engaging in these activities would give her a good picture of “a day in the life” of a professional.  Several persons in a variety of career areas could be studied throughout the summer.  It could be a great beginning, or continuation, of a career portfolio.