Golden rule and customer care

“Do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.“
Mt 7:12–13 

“This is a hike and not a training session,” says my coach, Frank. His job is to take people on hikes in the mountains. Frank has a deep voice. His practical style and way of talking resembles his passion in life; hiking. He draws forth a big blue rucksack. It is full of security equipment and different hiking gear, extra clothes in case of chilly weather, flashlights, and a walkie talkie that can be used in remote places. 

We all stare at this Norwegian man like he is a superhero. Thirteen different nations are represented at the training. The majority are Italians. The rest of us are from different countries, so it feels a bit like we have entered a council in the United Nations. The golden rule in all the training is how we treat our customers.  

People who are fit may easily do a hike. The average of our customers is, however, not in this category. Unfortunately, many people struggle with health issues, and have limited abilities. The best thing to do is then to meet people at their level, show respect and care, and inspire them to have a wonderful experience that matches their level of fitness. Oftentimes our customers travel to take a break from competition. When they come to us, they are thus not in competitive mode wanting to see «who gets there first». Experiencing beautiful nature and fellowship are all that really matters.  

On one of my recent tours, I remembered the name of one of our guests. As we left the boat that had taken us across a small fjord, I saw the same person as we entered the bus. I exclaimed; «Hello John, how was the boat ride? » At the end of the tour, he smiled and gave me a big tip.  

When we use our eyes and ears, we pay close attention to what matters. If we meet people with corrections, they may become uninterested and lose motivation. If we pay attention to who they are, we make space for the Holy Spirit. Simply remembering somebody’s name can make an enormous difference. 

Challenge of the week 

Do you pay most attention to tasks or people around you? If you focus more on tasks, how may you become more observant of other people? 

Pray 

Dear heavenly father, help me greet strangers with love no matter who they are and what skills they carry.