Customer Service

I know millions of bloggers have probably posted about bad customer service. But, I was exposed to a very unique experience this week.

I was picking up a movie from the video store. Their server had gone down and they could not access the cash register or movie database. A small line was beginning to form to check out movies and the staff was getting a bit agitated.

Eventually, the phone rang. The caller was asking if they had a particular movie in stock. Since the server was not working, he said he could not look it up at that time. He responded with "Leave your number and I'll call you back when the system is up". His co-worker said "Just make him call back".

This exchange is interesting. I have become accustom to less then stellar customer service. Though, I feel like the staff member who took the call attempted to take the extra step. If I had been the person calling, I don't think I would be that upset if I was asked to call back.

Is that where we are in the world? Just expecting a limited amount of customer service. I know these people aren't making piles of money but is there any pride in their work? When I was working at the movie theater concession stand I like to remember that I enjoyed my job and that translated a happier customer.

Oh well. I guess I am just getting old.