Editorial: Customer service can be a gateway to future endeavors

When we think about change, many things come to mind. However, there is one thing in this world that has never changed and will always be important. That is customer service.

When you represent yourself, you must make the best first impression. This philosophy also goes for when you are working at a job. Great customer service along with manners can be quite hard to find these days.

This editorial is not only addressing young people but adults who do not exhibit proper manners in the customer service field. If you are working a job, I really do not care how much that job is paying you. It’s still a job, and it is putting some type of money in your pocket so you can live and pay your bills.

An example is ordering at a restaurant. The first thing out of an associate’s mouth should be a hello or welcome, followed by how they can be of assistance. If the first words out of their mouth have a sarcastic, snarky tone, that is a no-go.

A customer service representative is the first line of a business and impacts a customer’s perspective. The representation of yourself is important because you have no idea if that person you are talking with is your next boss at a higher level as you continue to move up in the world of employment. The same person you are giving an attitude to could be the person who could be the difference between your success and failure in life. You never really know whom you are meeting.

My last portion of this editorial deals with manners. It is simple to comprehend manners like this; good manners go a long way in everyday life. Gentlemen, if you see a lady coming through the door, make sure that it is opened for her. When going to a nice restaurant, I beg that you are presentable. Hoodies, t-shirts, shorts, and hats are not lady or gentlemen-like.

When you sneeze or pass gas, say excuse me. When someone does something nice, a simple thank you can go a long way. I understand that these things may not be much, but our society must get back to a respect that is lacking. Once that happens, we can continue to grow as a nation and produce great people for our future. The little things mattered then, they matter now, and they will for the rest of time.