Risky Business
Are you Extraordinarily Memorable
Hi Everyone,
Following up on my earlier blog of great lessons learned from a speaker at the Sylectus conference. Michael Vickers expanded on how to distinguish oneself from the crowd….in any situation.
Our speaker told an intriguing story about a special cab driver who took his work to a whole new professional level. After hailing a taxi, Michael’s door was opened for him by a smiling driver with a friendly greeting. The interior of the unit was clean and inviting.
The cabbie then asked Michael if he’d like to choose one of three newspapers and what type of music he preferred. How about a Starbucks? He then brewed Michael a cup from the portable unit in the front seat. Towards the end the driver offered a bottle of water and a granola bar for the road, and did Michael need a map of the area or suggestions?
At the end of the trip, the driver asked Michael if he had enjoyed the ride. Michael told him, yes, it was by far the most pleasant cab ride he’d ever had anywhere.
The cabbie then asked if he could offer Michael his business card, and politely and openly asked if Michael could remember to call him in the future. The driver promised he would be waiting to take him wherever he likes whenever in town, and if he couldn’t be there he’d make sure a cabbie offering a similar passenger experience would be there.
This extraordinary cab driver then thanked Michael for his business, and hoped to see him again.
The Motor Carriers attending the Sylectus Conference weren’t cab drivers, they’re business owners, just like Independent Contractor Owner Operators are small business owners.
What can you do every day on every load to stand out and give notice that you’re more than the average Owner Operator?
A smiling, “can do†attitude for the dispatcher goes a long way in a positive memory for that very often overworked and stressed out cog in the wheel of our industry. Delivering the shipment with a positive manner and a personal sharp appearance reflects back to your Motor Carrier as a professional and trustworthy company. It’s a given that the truck is clean and appears safe and reliable for future runs.
Find your own special trademark when picking up a load and making the delivery. Being pleasant is by itself a rare commodity lately. Say Thank You from you AND your Motor Carrier.
“We appreciate your business, we hope you’ll use us again.â€
That in turn, could be the positive memory that bounces back
to the shipper who continues to contract with your Motor Carrier with more runs
for you and your associates.
All the people you touch with Extraordinary Service are only human, they'll remember you, too.
Does every kind gesture immediately turn around for personal gain? No, but it’s a step in the right direction to more positive, cordial and memorable relationships within our Expediting Community.
Warm Regards, Shelly
Shelly Benisch, CIC [email protected] www.MyCISagent.com