Sunday, October 21, 2007

ROSS DRESS FOR LESS AT MIDTOWN

As you can see, Midtown is fast becoming one of my favorite hangouts. I spent hours there Friday night, but today was the first day I decided to venture into Ross.
First things first, that store is probably one of the least inviting estabishments I've ever been to. I went to buy a baseball cap. I needed one because my last one blew into the bay when I was working out. Anyway, rarely do I go into someplace like Ross or Marshall's and buy one item. It's a virtual smorgasborg of inexpensive opportunity, and if you look carefully you can find some wonderful treasures, but in this store, I spent exactly 20 minutes and the marjority of that was in the line.
Which brings me to the service. It was horrible. Initially, there were two associates handling customers. After completing what I assume to be his last customer before taking a break, one associate unceremoniously pushed his line of patient consumers off on the other and simply walks away without so much as an "excuse me" or "I'm going on break" or "I'll be back" or "forget you" or anything.
Then, when the remaining associate called for assistance, another young lady called back using the intercom and they spent the next few seconds bantering back and forth, loudly, about whether the person attached to the voice should stay on break or go to the floor or come to the front to help. Needless to say, she didn't and we sat there and waited.
I know what you're thinking. You're thinking why didn't I leave. I could find a baseball cap anywhere. But, it was so cute and only 6.99. So, I decided to stand there and vent my frustration, here, in a forum that can help others. If you're a stickler for service, I strongly suggest you steer clear of this store. It's not worth the value.
The views expressed on this blog are my own. Use this as a guide only. This critique was not solicited, nor was I hired to share these thoughts. I am not a professional. I'm just a customer looking for great service. The names of the individuals mentioned are eliminated, primarily to protect me. Please remember, everyone's opinion is different and I encourage you to check it out for yourself.

Monday, October 8, 2007

STARBUCK'S IN MIDTOWN

Have you ever read those quotes in finance books that say if you invest the money you spend on cups of coffee, you could be rich. Well, I read it and that's about it. As a true fan of Starbuck's, I declare I will not and cannot give up my white chocolate mocha low fat with creme or my hot apple cider. And with each overpriced cup, I usually get a great big smile. But somehow, the Starbuck's inside Target at the Midtown Plaza on 36th Street and N. Miami Avenue didn't get the memo. They find time to gossip with their friends, pay very little attention to me or my order. It's a wonder they can get it right.
I must confess that last week I was pleasantly surprised. The young lady was quick and courteous. She didn't smile much, but the coffee was served quickly and it tasted great. Her barrister skills really shined through. She was so efficient, I found myself looking for the tip cup they aren't suppose to have. Under normal circumstances, I wouldn't go back, but maybe I'll give them another try, at least when I see she's working.
As always, the views expressed on this blog are my own. Use this as a guide only. This critique was not solicited, nor was I hired to share these thoughts. I am not a professional. I'm just a customer looking for great service. The names of the individuals mentioned are eliminated, primarily to protect me. Please remember, everyone's opinion is different and I encourage you to check it out for yourself.

Monday, October 1, 2007

A SIMPLE, BUT IMPORTANT QUOTE

The customer is why you go to work. If they go away, you do, too. --David Haverford

To those who provide customer service...think about it!

INSPECTOR SERVICE