Happiness Factor
It's Not Just the Coffee

Have you ever noticed a place of business that seems to be bustling with activity, the customers all seem to be excited to be there and overall, there is just a great vibe in the air? First place that comes to mind is a certain coffee shop that's on nearly every corner in America, and while many will roll their eyes, you have hand it to the people at Starbucks - they have mastered the art of making coffee time, fun time. ChaCHING! Compare that to the place that is nearly dead, no smiles being exchanged, the quicker you can leave, the more thrilled you'll be. Place that comes to mind here? Big Lots- endless aisles of unwanted seconds, capped off with a less than enthusiastic cashier. Whoopee. As a consumer, which place would you rather be in? Which place more closely describes your business?

 

In this issue, we'll cover the Happiness Factor (HF) in your work place and how elevating it can bring your business up a notch, both in terms of receivables and attitude.

Take Inventory
Find Your HF

The easiest way to locate your HF is to first check the mirror. Your employees and staff will usually emulate the attitude YOU display - it's part of your company culture. Are you grumpy, rushing about, rarely smiling? Beware of the message this sends your staff and customers. Don't know what you look like or how you're acting? Have an employee or colleague give you feedback. Be prepared to get an honest answer and actually, insist on getting one. Here are some things to ask:

Smile With Your Heart
Faking it Fools No one

Let's face it - we spend a lot of time working and it won't always be wine and roses. However, you'll get so sympathy here. When a customer comes to us for service or a product, they deserve our time, our attention, and yes, our smile. Why? Because they are the reason you are in business and you should be thrilled to have them right where you want them - in front of you, ready to do business! They chose you, give them a reason to do it again.

 

Use these things to exhibit and foster the HF in your work place and your customers will continue to come to your place any time they need your widget or service.

Once you have started developing a high level of HF, you'll discover a better working environment. In addition, you'll notice happier customers, the kind that like to linger a little longer and spend a bit more, a exceptional side effect that comes from excellent customer service. Set a goal to make your HF the envy of your competition today!