In a Pickle

On the agenda today: Pickle Training.

Pickle what?

I was a bit skeptical spending my morning in Pickle Training, which I later learned is just "Give 'em the pickle" training. Does that clarify things? Ha.

The training is designed to improve customer service and build leadership. Our company's session was based on the popular "Pickle Training" offered globally probably by Bob Farrell. It stemmed from a customer complaint he received when he owned a restaurant. Patrons always got a second pickle if they asked for one. This person didn't one day and wrote a letter of complaint and said he wouldn't return to the eatery again.

Mr. Farrell reminded his employees to focus on keeping their customers happy and satisfied. If they want one, give them the pickle! It's not worth losing customers over.

Our group today represented a handful of different departments – all of us with both external and internal customers. It was both entertaining and interesting. Basically, the Pickle principles for great customer service are these...

While this might apply to our work, it also applies to our volunteer efforts, boards and committees we serve on, and relationships in general. Doesn't that make sense that we should try to serve others, maintain a positive attitude to keep them happy, consistently be there for them, and build each other up?

What is your pickle? What do you have (or do) that can be applied to those four categories? Knowledge, creativity, humor, support... You probably have a number of pickles to give! 

I think we undervalue the positive impact of a listening ear, a compliment or a hug. This was a good reminder today it is simple to do more for others in all corners of my little world.

I guess when life hands you lemons, you make lemonade. But when life hands you pickles, you give them away!