7 Miles for Sushi
May 11, 2008
“Never judge a man until you have walked a mile in his shoes.” The old Indian proverb says. Never mind that you happen to be a mile away from the guy whose shoes you stole. What they also could say is that “People will travel great distances for great service!”
We have all been the victim of poor service at times, and we have also experienced stellar service which is so hard to find today.
OK, I realize that we lost a good chunk of you at the title. Please forgive me, but I really do enjoy this Japanese delicacy that in some parts of the country is affectionately referred to as “bait”. In this message, you will be reminded of 3 things that are crucial to success in growing your business.
My good friend and fellow professional speaker, Tony and I were in Las Vegas catching up on business matters and attending a large convention. After a long day of walking to and from meeting rooms and talking, we were both craving sushi. It’s one of those rituals that hits us when we get together and the time is right.
“No problem”, I said, “There is a sushi place right here in our hotel!” After being seated at the ½ full restaurant and waiting for 45 minutes, we became agitated and decided to leave. I wasn’t sure if they had to catch the fish first before being able to prepare our meal, but if they did; the middle of the desert was not a good place for deep sea fishing. (Especially in a city built on and known for instant gratification!)
Vegas is a city of getting what you want when you want, regardless of the time of day or night. That is true, of course unless you are from the Midwest looking for a tasty plate of raw fish. We walked from hotel to hotel, wearing out our shoes in the process, with our stomachs grumbling all of the way. On the monorail, off the monorail, past those illegal aliens flipping those little “calling cards” at you on the strip (if you have been to Vegas, you know what I’m talking about!)
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we happened upon a wonderful place inside the mini0city known as the MGM Grand Hotel called Shibuya. They were in the process of closing up when we approached the hostess, telling her of our 7 mile quest for sushi at all costs. We would not be denied!
“No problem” she told us as she motioned to our server who gladly guided us to our table. The staff was exciting and attentive and the food was worth every step of our journey. Yes, we’d finally found relief for our sushi craving!
At this dinner, Tony and I discussed several goal planning and strategic marketing ideas for the upcoming year. We were in there well past closing time; yet the staff treated us like family. What a positive and dramatic change compared to the first restaurant that evening.
Based on this experience and our dogged persistence to have a great meal at all costs even if it included walking several miles to find it, there are three lessons I would like you to think about when it comes to taking your customer service to the next level:
- Bend over backwards, sideways, and always go above and beyond for your customers. You never know how they may impact your business. I have shared this story with nearly 20,000 people this year alone and Shibuya keeps getting free commercials from me because of this great experience! Think of shopping at a Nordstrom’s or other upscale shopping experience. Sadly, many businesses and real estate professionals don’t get this concept. The Cajun call it “lagniappe” (pronounced lan-yap). Don’t only practice it in your business; adopt it as a way of life.
- Be aware of the people that are representing you. This could be the Director of First Impressions (receptionist), the telemarketing team that does follow up for your business, or any other person who has contact with your client base. If you clearly define what kind of culture is essential to work at your business, they will measure up. If they don’t, find someone who will.
- Ask, ask, and ask. Your customers are the best advertising you could ever imagine. We had asked over 10 people to direct us in our quest for great sushi. Hand out your business card to every client who passes through your doors or everyone you come into contact with. If you simply ask enough people to help you grow your business, the right people will help you along the way.
On a side note, always bring a good pair of walking shoes when you visit Las Vegas!!!
Make it a great day!
Dave Sheffield
In our continuing effort to bring you the best from the world of real estate and business Real Estate Radio USA is proud to present the writings of Dave Sheffield.
Dave "The Shef" Sheffield is one of America's most sought after experts on marketing, leadership, Generation X and Y, and Sales training. He has spoken to over 350,000 people ; delivering messages that not only inspire and motivate, but also give the attendees tools that they can put to work right away.
He is a contributing author of 4 books Unleashing the Leader Within You, Unleashing the Vision Within You, One Step From Striking Gold, and A Massive Dose of Motivation. These books have sold over 70,000 copies worldwide.
For booking or other information, please visit Mr. Sheffield's website or call Sheffield Development Group at 1-800-863-2591.
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