A good day to make a profit

In these times I am baffled by people and companies that, on the one hand complain about not making enough money, while on the other hand, seem not to be hungry enough to do anything about it. You've seen this for sure and I hope, for your sake, you are not one of these people. What people? People, and honestly the philosophy and culture of many companies, that won't go the extra mile to make a sale.

For instance, I walked into a crowded ice cream shop on Capitol Hill at 11:10pm to be greeted with the comment, "I'm sorry, we closed at 11!" ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!! I had cash in my pocket, cash that wanted to be freed of its shackles, if only to be spent on a tasty ice cream. Then there’s the employee that sees you standing outside the window right before open hours, and not simply window shopping, but with that all too-common look of, "I have cash in my hand and only need two quick things," yet won't come to the door. Sure, rules are rules, but…


Well, this morning, my frustrations took a much needed break. Across from our office sits a landmark in this area, a Cost Plus World Market - I know you've seen it if you've ever visited the EXCLAIM offices or the Pike Place Market. Anyway, we're off to celebrate with a client and some of their recent success and wanted to pick up a bottle of Champagne to drop off as a token of our enthusiasm. I had not thought ahead – but needed to find a bottle of bubbly at 9:20 in the morning. Where to go? World Market. What time do they open? Not sure. I found the number, called the store and it was answered by a real person. The person explained that they did not open 'til 10am. I explained my error in procrastination, what I needed and where I was located (across the street). To my pleasant surprise, she said, and I quote, "why don't you come over right now. I'll open up and you can get what you need!" WOW. Dear Deborah, you are not only a rare breed, but get the meaning of “doing business.” I will not only remember this, but am obviously compelled to share this occasion with the world right here and now. Not only am I elated that we got the gift we needed to help celebrate, but I got to experience amazing customer service that one person offered. This in turn made my day, the day of our client and the day of the World Market headquarters – after all, they made one extra sale.


Sometimes today you need to make a sale one customer at a time. Thus every person is of the utmost importance toward your bottom line. Therefore, it stands to reason that if you have the chance to make a sale, while at the same time offering memorable customer service, DO IT, and do it with a smile - Thank you Deborah at Cost Plus World Market, this country needs more of you and more people that are willing to go that one extra step.