E-couragement: The Little Things

“Success is nothing more than a few simple disciplines, practiced every day.”  Jim Rohn As I buckled my seatbelt and drove away, I noticed the good feeling inside. I was more than satisfied with my buying experience. I return to this location several times a year because of the little things they do. This is not some modern business breakthrough. We’re all familiar with the phrase. We’ve even spoke it a time or two, “It’s the little things that count.” This concept is a fundamental truth whether we’re referring to business, relationships, or personal success. It’s why I’m a loyal customer to this local business. They don’t simply know the phrase—they practice it.  

I have choices. I don’t have to visit them. They don’t have a monopoly on this industry (it’s not the DMV). I can do it myself, go to their competitors, or con a friend into doing it for me. I’m talking about changing the oil in my car. I go to Jiffy Lube on Battleground Avenue in Greensboro, NC. Here’s how they demonstrate their commitment to making the little things count:

• Briskly walk to my car and greet me; they’re eager to serve.
• Open my car door and wait patiently as I gather my things.
• Walk me to the customer waiting area, which is spacious, clean, has hot coffee and free internet—all my basic needs are met!
• Explain the work they’ve done and discuss other options I may want to consider. No pressure sales, they allow me to make the final decision.
• Upon completion, a service person opens the door, walks me back to my car, thanks me for my business, and wishes me a good day.

That’s it, a handful of little things. These little actions are low-to-no-cost yet they ensure I come back every 3 months or 3,000 miles to spend more money with them. They get it. It’s simple, rare, and very effective.

What about you? How are you applying the “little things” philosophy in your personal and work life? It’s a sure way to engage others by making them feel important. Being on the receiving end of small acts of kindness speaks to our human core. Although the cost is virtually nothing, the results can be priceless. Here’s to standing out during all the holiday hoopla by doing the little things that really count.

Leave your comments: Where have you experienced the “little things that count” as a customer?