OK, we’ve all been there… the staff who avoid your eye, go missing in action altogether or (my favourite) busily engaged in almost anything that doesn’t involve serving customers. Bad management or just par for the course? Whatever… it usually precedes the closure of an otherwise promising business…
4 WAYS TO LOSE EVEN THE MOST LOYAL CUSTOMERS
- Don’t’ take any interest in customers (even your regulars). When they arrive, don’t greet them at the door or approach them with a genuine smile… it only encourages them.
- In the restaurant business? Seat them, serve them, take their money. There is nothing better than seeing their backs as new patrons take their place.
- You’re not responsible for the success of the brand name, store or business you work for. If your manager offers training, fake it and go through the motions. If you’re counselled about performance; ditto.
- Turn up for your job more or less on time, watch the clock, leave on the dot. Your time is worth more than theirs and anyway and there’s plenty of jobs out there, right?
4 WAYS TO REMAIN VIABLE AND RISE TO THE TOP
- Regular customers are regular for a reason: they know you, you know them. They feel welcome precisely because you have made sure they are. Front of house receptionists, see: Know my Name.
- Restaurants? Seat them, serve them, accept payment. A good host will make or break your customers’ experience. The secret lies in whether your business cared enough to make their visit memorable. When they leave and new customers arrive; repeat No. 1.
- Buy into the brand your work for and give it your best shot. Take every training opportunity… if your employer invests in your education; use it. It’s a learning curve. With that under your belt you are equipped to move upwards with this company; or move on…
- Turn up on time, uniform freshly pressed. Enjoy your breaks but don’t make them the sole focus of your day… they are refreshers and opportunities to take a walk, get to know your colleagues, feed the ducks, study or read a book. Whatever! Leave when your shift is done but don’t leave with ‘issues’. Leave tired maybe, but happy and satisfied that you’ve done your best. Repeat tomorrow.
That is Shishu. Agnelo. 0449 592 728
