There is a coffee shop (not a coffee lover, pretend you might be) a block away from my house. It's one shop of only two so it's not a chain that is recognizable but I go because they serve the best espresso in town. It's also not Starbucks which is good. I go at least five times per week to relax, have an espresso, and leave 20 minutes later after reading some pages in any book I might have my nose in.
A couple of weeks ago I ordered my drink and, in European tradition, a small glass of water is served with it. Not today. So I asked the guy (barista #1) behind the register for some water and he said, "yeah, there's some right next to you. Help yourself." Now, to his credit there WAS ice water and glasses two steps to my right. And I'm sure he thought he was being helpful by telling me how to help myself. But the point is he had every opportunity to give exceptional service RIGHT THERE. See, the water was the same distance to his left.
Every time I see him I get pissy. I realize it, hey, I'm human. So today I went in and another person made my order and provided a full glass of water and placed it next to my espresso without me asking anything. I complemented him on doing so 'cause other people haven't done that in the past. This second barista said "not giving water with an espresso is like not giving ice with an iced tea. It's not a complete order."
I know, I know. It's just coffee.
But in days where jobs are vanishing faster than beer at a college party being a "get bye" isn't going to cut it.
BWOD
Look closely at your business. Are you providing service like barista #1 or #2.
Post any thoughts to comments. Share with any affiliate who may need to wake up as well.
And watch this video and learn how to really give an amazing experience from a CAB DRIVER!
I've often been like Barista #1. Not in the way I interact when approached by clients or potential clients. But in the way, I migrate towards those in the gym who I'm very comfortable with and neglect the person who I've yet to introduce myself to.
I am actively trying to correct this by approaching everyone I can that I haven't met yet while not much is going on in the box (that 10-15 mins before a class begins). I think it goes a long way towards providing good service, making people feel welcome and accepted and more comfortable.
All the running jokes with long time friends can wait, a minute or two.
wow - I can't wait to take a trip to Dallas - I'm looking for Frank for my cab ride!
Now I need to go to Dallas for a cab ride and Santa Barbara for a haircut... It is all about the experience..
What a wonderful story! That is top notch service ![]()
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