Feel like bashing the banking biz? Join the crowd. We’re weary of hearing about bailouts that boggle the mind, executive bonuses and perks, and of course – fraud – exceeding anything we could ever have imagined. Then there’s the stock market – for millions of us, we’ve watched whatever savings we had take a dive, or disappear entirely. In this recession, we’ve lost homes, jobs, and worse – dreams.
I’m as angry as the next guy, and like you, with plenty of reason. But…
Behind every business are individuals
I think we need to remember that every industry is made up of individuals – some good, some bad; most, somewhere in between.
Today I had an exceptional experience that reminded me of that. I’ve always had good dealings with my local bank, but this afternoon, Bank of America served up some of the finest customer service I can remember in years, and through hours of tedious tasks that took three people in three different departments to help me work things out. And none of these individuals knew me personally.
I think that deserves a shout out!
Each and every one of the people who assisted me could not have been more professional, more friendly, more patient, or more helpful.
And trust me – on no food, too much coffee, too little sleep, and in my tallest shoes (ouch, but I was in a 5’3″ mood today) – I can get a little… uh… cranky.
Michelle – you were meticulous, outgoing, and provided me every bit of information I asked for. And I was like Columbo without the rumpled trench coat! Each time you thought I was walking away, I’d turn around and ask “Just one more thing?”
Randy – you’re a gentleman. You are also a crystal clear communicator when it comes to topics that are not easy to explain.
Thank you for putting up with my questions (asked repeatedly), and for truly listening to my issues and goals, and making recommendations that feel right.
You made a terrific first impression.
As for you, Candace – let’s just say – you’re a gem.
And guess what? There’s more!
I’m sending another shout out into the universe for a few more people in various parts of the country who have the thankless job of telephone customer service representative. Some of you even laughed at my jokes!
And there’s one more woman who has known me a long time. And through some very hard years, she’s never bailed on me. Kathy – today, you proved again that angels do exist.
SOOOOOO, you say (if you’ve been following my tale)
Am I still sucked into the vortex of a crap economy, no steady employment, and tons of money worries? Or is everything suddenly hunky-dory?
Now come on. No Hollywood story here. You bet things are still messy and unresolved!
(This is reality life, not reality TV.)
But you know what? Today, great customer service and helpful strangers made me feel better. About everything.
I am reminded that for all the inequities that occur each day, there are good people who are honest, caring, and who do their jobs impeccably.
As for angels? You know my stance on that. They exist – and they potentially exist in each of us, in simple acts of respect and kindness.
© D A Wolf
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