I recently went to Vancouver for the first time. One of the things I enjoy the most about visiting a new place is sampling the local cuisine. In Vancouver, it is possible to find almost every cuisine in the world. However, my favourites on the trip were fresh local seafood, particulary lobster, sushi, bagels…and lots of great coffee. In fact I experienced my 1st ever drive-thru Starbucks in Vancouver. Fantastic. When are we going to see more in the UK?

Customer service is definitely as important as the choice of food in Vancouver. It is impossible not to notice how helpful and friendly the service is in this town. Wherever I went I was made to feel that my purchase and shopping experience was of the utmost importance…. Here the Customer is King!

Back in the UK, I can’t help but think that we still have a long way to go to match these levels of service. 

Reports in the UK continually tell us that “customer service” is the main reason people return to a restaurant and a bad experience can have a lasting effect. So why do we still find the whole process of “serving” people so awkward.

If you only do one thing today, look after your customers and make sure they feel appreciated. It will make their day…and yours too.