Improve the way you speak, Improve the way you serve

Wow, I don't know that my heart's utterance would invite more comments like my last post. Once again thank you for reading it and thank you for supporting me. Now, I really really have to be careful on what to say next, hehehe... Just kidding. One of these days I will be pouring my hearts out again. I think :-P

So funny, that I may be able to talk about anything but matters of the heart, a.k.a. "crushes" cause "that" person might read it and imagine how red my face would be, hahaha... Plump red tomato came to mind. OK I'm high... on sugar. (The topic... Make you perk up, doesn't it? Hahaha)

Just a little update on my job search or watchamacaulit. I shall have no qualms for now regarding my new job, that I supposedly start on Monday. I really want to like this job, really. I'm not made to job hunting, so when I noticed that a lot of things amiss with this one, I'm in a dillema whether I should take it or move on. The thing is, I don't have the luxury to keep on searching for that perfect job. Now I realize the term of "Time is money" more than ever. If not for the money, hey, at least I need to get a job so that my Permanent Residency legalization doesn't go to waste. I spent money for that thing.

Well, this job maybe the first venue where I got to negotiate to "save" my butt. The contract is pretty stiff. They're planning to make a cheap labor out of me. They don't want to negotiate about the low payment whatsoever, it's just like take it or leave it. I think they know my weaknesses. So my cards laid face open on the table. No matter. But there are some things that I found really worrisome... They're selling product and service... For them to stay afloat, I would have thought that at least they deliver the product, because the service... Maybe because I'm not at the source of money/ profit. But still, you got to make your workers happy first to create the great product, right? Good dynamics, perhaps? Problems: They're late at getting back at me, late at their promises, and non negotiable (but I need to sharpened myself on that subject). But I want to give them the benefit of the doubt. I haven't even started. I should always strive to see the good in everything. In a way it'll turn out good for me too. Think positive, Anne! AJA! :-P I really need to shake my mentality as a buyer... It's not my job anymore, hehehe.

Anyway, in the spirit of business courtesy, I found this post on the back of Today's Recruit. Some manners that perhaps not only work in business world but in 'serving' each other. Adding to my previous post that you need to learn how to paraphrase your words before you spit it out... Hahaha.

Here are some of the worst things you could say to people in your efforts to serve them (I edit and shortened the article below)

by Helen Wilkie (Strait Times, 2/23/06)

Worst: We cannot fill your order until we receive your cheque
What's wrong: this sounds like an ultimatum, and suggests you doubt the cheque would be forthcoming.
Best: As soon as we receive your cheque, we will fill your order

Worst: That's not my area's/ department's responsibility
What's wrong: it sounds as if you don't want to help
Best: The person who can help you with that is ___, his direct number is ___ (note: when you reach this contact person, explain the situation before putting the customer through)

Worst: Sorry to keep you waiting
What's wrong: it focuses the person on the unwelcome act they had to perform ~ waiting
Best: Thank you for your patience

Worst: I'm sorry I did not return your call, but I have been really busy
What's wrong: too busy to think of me, the customer? It's better to not make excuses at all
Best: I'm sorry I did not return your call sooner. I will do my best to find the answer to you immediately. (note: This is your second chance, so you must take care the problem quickly and efficiently, or you'll loose your credibility)

Worst: I will have to speak to the manager about that.
What's wrong: speaking to the manager is fine, but putting it this way sounds as if you're forced to take the action. You need to let the person know you want to help.
Best: I will be happy to speak to the manager about that to you

Worst: This is the wrong line. You will have to wait in line that section
What's wrong: Most people's reaction to this one is: "I'm the customer, and I don't have to do anything. You are the one who have to help me."
Best: Unfortunately, I do not have the ability to help you here

Worst: Thank you for your business
What's wrong: it's cold, impersonal and too commercial
Best: Thank you for coming to us for your (new product/ need for services). We hope it will...(elaborate)

Worst: I don't know, I'm new here
What's wrong: customer doesn't care whether you're new or not. He's entitled to expect your assistance.
Best: I know that sounds like a simple request, but this is my first week here and I have not quite found my way around yet. If you will give me a moment, though I will ask my colleague for the answer. (note: Don't apologize for being new, simply act in a friendly way and remember the answer next time)