Something for both employers and ambitious employees to think about …

My father, who was the most customer-oriented businessman I’ve ever known, had two firm rules when it comes to the treatment of customers. First, when a customer walks in, stop whatever you’re doing and give him ALL your attention. Second, never argue with a customer, no matter how wrong you may believe him to be.

Which brings me to today’s world of laziness, incompetence, negligence, and sloth. Since so few employees have the slightest interest in pleasing customers — or even being civil to them — the individual who displays a customer-oriented attitude stands out like a Ron Paul disciple at a Republican convention.

The attitude of a company toward its customers should be: “How may I be of the greatest service to you?” Every time you run into rudeness, poor service, or indifference toward customers, you’re witnessing a business that is actively inviting competition.

Attitude may not be everything, but it’s an excellent place to start.