Eleva8UP Magazine June 2014 | Page 10

Great Customer Service

hat is good service to you? A smile, your order coming out correct, or your server refilling your drink every 10 minutes? Good service is what happens when you leave an establishment (in this instance we're using a restaurant for example) feeling satisfied, whatever that may be. Many of us are willing to pay a pretty penny for a stress-free, friendly dining experience. And some of us will pay even more to thank those individuals who make it happen. When we go out, we are king for the day or night and expect to be treated as such, right?

As a former server, let me begin by telling you it's hard to serve a king. Not only do servers have to constantly wear a smile and positive attitude as they provide for our every whim, but they also have to juggle multiple tables—many being families with fussy children—while getting everyone's order correct and delivered piping hot. And don't forget the side of ranch!

They get yelled at by the cooks when their food is ready; they get yelled at to hustle by management; and I'm sure many can vouch for this - they get yelled at by you for whatever detail they may have overlooked. What you may not know is often times, it's not their fault. They do all this while working for minimum wage, plus whatever gratuity you feel kind enough to throw their way. I can say from experience, it takes a great server to make all this happen simultaneously, while leaving the customers never the wiser to the chaos going on behind the scenes.

With this picture in mind, it is important to remember that being a good customer is just about as

important as being a good server/waitress/bartender. When you have an amazing experience, don't just brush it off. Show them your appreciation. Not only does this heighten your chances of having a great experience next time, but you might just make that person's day.

"But I'm broke..." Stop using that excuse because it's a lame one. If you can't afford to tip anything, you shouldn't go out to eat at a full service restaurant.

Even still, there are more ways to tip than with money. If someone stands out as giving you excellent service, find their manager and let them know. Think about how many times their managers hear negative comments. People are too quick to judge and slow to compliment. Your words of kindness could change that person's perspective and validate their efforts so they can continue providing great customer service. It's like a circle of life - it's up to you to keep that cycle going.

Business: Donuts Plus

Employee Name: Lisa

Location: 1500 W. El Camino Ste 5

Sacramento, CA 95833

Everytime I come to this parking lot for anything, I HAVE to stop here. The lady who owns the place is so sweet and makes my day everytime! She owns the place with her husband, who makes the donuts. He has told me personally that the donuts are fried in peanut-oil (the best), and are made fresh with the best ingredients. Not only is the service excellent- fast & friendly -but, the donuts are yummy too, esp. maple!

Heather K.

Business: Chops Steakhouse

Employee Name: Michelli Heber

Location: 1117 11th Street

Sacramento, CA 95814

I'm a very busy event planner who doesn't have time for mistakes. Michelli, the events coordinator at Chops, respected my time by getting every detail perfect! She was always available, and through it all remained remarkably calm and friendly. The food and service was amazing, as promised, and came out hot and on time. The banquet room was perfect and very affordable. I recommend this venue, and specifically Michelli, to anyone looking.

Jackie W.

W

— Jax B.

Life & Business

Eleva8UP |

ELEVA8UP / JUNE 2014

10

Business: Chops Steakhouse

Employee Name: Michelli Heber

Location: 1117 11th Street

Sacramento, CA 95814

I'm a very busy event planner who doesn't have time for mistakes. Michelli, the events coordinator at Chops, respected my time by getting every detail perfect! She was always available, and through it all remained remarkably calm and friendly. The food and service was amazing, as promised, and came out hot and on time. The banquet room was perfect and very affordable. I recommend this venue, and specifically Michelli, to anyone looking.

Jackie W.