By Staff
Dear Editor,
I am writing to bring attention to a growing problem in our fair city. I've been noticing a steep decline in customer service standards here in Brewton. As a nurse, I am expected to behave in a professional and courteous manner toward all patients and staff, and rightly so. However, I'm starting to believe that not many other types of businesses adhere to such guidelines. Many times I've been through a check out line to not be greeted by the cashier, who is too busy to speak to me because she is having a deep and meaningful conversation with another cashier. Last week, I went through an entire grocery transaction without having a word spoken to me except the amount I owed. But the last straw, so to speak, was a recent episode with an indignant department store employee that left me humiliated and appalled. I took the liberty of writing his manager. I'm sure he would have done the same for me if I had treated him in that manner.
Not all establishments are guilty of such infractions. In fact, I frequent several businesses whose employees are very nice. The Burger King drive-through usually leaves me feeling pretty warm and fuzzy. But if I have one more convenience store clerk blow cigarette smoke in my face, I may go insane. If any business managers are reading this editorial, encourage your staff to deliver a pleasant experience for your customers. I believe that many consumers, like myself, only desire the same common courtesy that any human deserves. Even if the customer is not always right, he or she does deserve to be treated with dignity and respect.
Sincerely,
Brandi Tindell