Redirect

 

I recall a conversation with a trainer in the food service industry about how they train workers to deal with difficult customers.  She said the one thing that takes pain in the ass customers off their game is a compliment.  She gave an example, "I really like your hair style...did you get it cut recently...my parents are barbers so I can recognize a good haircut when I see it."  Here is where it got funny.  I immediately thought about my last visit to the barber where I was greeted with the smile and asked how I was doing.  I thought more about the example she gave, and it did indeed shift my thinking.  That is how quick a redirect can happen.

Next, she told me about a customer who was a huge pain and quite rude.  She continued being complimentary and smiling.  By the end of the dinner, the man smiled, asked for her phone number, said thank you, and left her a 50% tip.  She had indeed changed someone's thinking with her energy and words.  Throughout the rest of the day, I thought about the conversation, and there were a few takeaways.

•          A little kindness can change lives and situations.

•          Words have power so choose them wisely.

•          How I react to negative people and situations is totally my choice.

•          I have opportunities each day to make a difference in the world.

 There is always time to be kind and it is indeed a choice.  So, here is your question for the day.  Should I react or redirect?