This morning, on the way to work, I stopped in my favorite coffee shop – La Vida Java at Westport Village. The owner rang up my order and then added two free cups of coffee to my frequent buyer card. When I asked him why, he said it was because he’d forgotten to add the extra shot of espresso I’d ordered in my coffee, the morning before. What a lovely gesture and a simple act of customer service that will keep me coming back every morning.
In agency traffic management, as in life, it’s all about the details. Good customer service not only keeps work (and team members) moving productively, but it makes everyone feel good along the way.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, “As Traffic Manager, you’re in a position to directly affect the attitudes of those around you.” Listen for the opportunity to brighten someone’s day and act on it.
Here are a few of my favorite “random acts of kindness,” in the workplace:
1. Keep a pack of note cards in your desk drawer. When a team member does something great around the office, tell them you noticed. I’m fond of this designer’s Smile Mini cards – Isabell’s Umbrella.
2. Bring a team member a cup of coffee. If there’s none made, brew a pot and let everyone know when it’s ready.
3. Split a bouquet of flowers with your team members. I often buy an $8-$10 sleeve on my way to work and divide it up among two or three people. Who doesn’t love cheerful flowers, “just because?”
4. Straighten up around the office. While you’re waiting for your printouts at the copier, tidy up the paper shelf. If there are printouts that haven’t been picked up yet, deliver them with a smile.
While the above acts fall outside of your job description, they’re nonetheless a selfless way to build team spirit. A positive work environment can only foster increased productivity and encourage others to perform random acts of kindness.
Who knows, someone might even bring YOU a cup of coffee!