This evening I had the distinct honor to provide the keynote address to the Jerseyville (IL) National Honor Society.  This event was designed to honor those graduating seniors for the membership in the NHS.  The keynote included information on pursing a career, interviewing, the first days on the job and maintaining a positive attitude.  The crowd included the honorees as well as their parents and other guests.

As I looked out into the audience, I realized that these students were our future leaders.  How blessed we are.  These are smart, young students with a future to be whatever they want to be. 

My thanks to the Jerseyville Community Hospital for sponsoring me.  The Rotary was the overall event sonsor. 

What frustrates you most when you call a company?  Being put on hold?  Ending up in a voicemail loop?  You want to make sure that the exact thing that frustrates you is not happening at your company.  Call in from the outside (using call blocking) and ask for yourself.  Is the phone answered the way that you would expect for it to be?  What would you change? 

Remember, the telephone is the first impression anyone receives of your company.  Most likely the phone receptionist is one of the lowest paid (and lowest trained) individuals within your company.  Yet, that person holds the power to make a great or not so great first impression.

On March 12, I presented to members of the Jerseyville County Business Association.  The focus was on customer service.  We discussed things such as the first impression, telephone etiquette, smiling, manners and other items pertaining to customer service.  We also role played and shared ideas on how to “WOW” the customer.

My theory is that if you wake up every morning dreading your job, then it is time to find another one.  Think about it.  In the last twenty-four hours I bet than you were provided service by someone who obviously did not like their job or want to be there.  If you are feeling the same way, what type of service are you providing for your customers. 

What is your dream job?  Do you know someone who has their dream job?  What is their attitude toward their work.  I bet it is great.  Remember too, it is not about the money.  Money is not what drives you every day.  You can have a job you hate, your boss can offer you a raise, and eventually the money will wear off and you will continue to dislike your job. 

So, think about what you really want to do with your life and as Nike says “JUST DO IT”.