This is becoming my new wrap-up line on phone calls with customer service representatives lately. Well, it’s more like, “Thank you so much for being helpful and patient.” I thought a few weeks back that I would try this out and see what affect it has, even if the CSR and I end up butting heads (very rare). It’s been cool and amusing, I haven’t had one bad response to saying this. Pretty much the opposite of that, the CSR feels appreciated, even if just for a second. I can usually tell because after a quick, shocked gasp their voice becomes lighter, happier, less concerned that I’m some off-balanced consumer that’s going to leave a bad word about them with their manager later for no real good reason.
Working in customer service is no joke. For anyone that has never done it, I could say you’re off the hook of dealing with some major negative crapholes in this world, or I might say that you’re missing out on valuable and necessary framework for life with meaningful human interactions. But the reality of it is customer service is really customer slave duty. And there are some greater-than-heinous pricks buying shit.
Why am I ending calls with this little one two buckle my shoe repeated line? Having been on both sides of the customer service spectrum, I think it’s worth it to be pleasant as much as possible and because it’s spreading a little nicey nice out into the world to perfect strangers. It’s really fun and it gives me a good feeling, too. Plus the main and personal benefit is that it’s making me a more patient person which is unexpected but welcomed, nonetheless. Maybe you’d find some enjoyment in being supremely polite to people that have tough jobs, too.
Try it. I dare you.
Disclosure: This post was inspired by sugar and spice and everything nicey nice.