Value Your Customers and First Impressions

Today as we continue our discussion of the PFSbrands Core Values, I will cover a Core Value that can lead to a happy life, whatever that might look like to you. I’m a strong proponent of the fact that everyone should find the right structure and balance when it comes to God, family, work, and everything else. It makes a huge difference and you will see why.

Likewise, if you’ve read my recent post on entitlements, I’m sure you can see that we believe in Straight Talk at PFSbrands. What’s the point of beating around the bush when you can just tell it like it is, in a tactful, respectful manner? It simplifies business, your relationships and your life. But before we dive deeper, let’s review the entire set of PFSbrands Core Values:

PFSbrands Core Values 

  1. Have fun
  2. Always treat others as you want to be treated
  3. Practice ‘ownership thinking’
  4. Positive ATTITUDE always
  5. I – There’s no I in TEAM
  6. No complaining
  7. Entitlements do not exist
  8. Structure & balance – God, family, work, and everything else
  9. Straight talk and Simple is better
  10. Remember that the customer is why we are here
  11. U never get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression
  12. Learn to communicate openly through all channels
  13. Everyone has the opportunity to excel

If you follow the first letters down, you will notice that our Core Values spell out HAPPINESS RULE.  As we all live and work by these Core Values I guarantee you that our work will be more fun and more rewarding.  I’ve already broken down Core Values 1 through 9 and below you will see Core Values 10 through 11.

1. Have Fun

2. Always Treat Others as You Want to be Treated

3. Practice Ownership Thinking

4. Positive Attitude Always

5. I – There’s No I In Team

6. No Complaining

7. Entitlements Do Not Exist

8. Structure & Balance – God, Family, Work, & Everything Else

9. Straight Talk & Simple is Better

10. Remember That the Customer is Why We Are Here

How many times have you heard someone complain about something a customer is requesting?  First, refer to the ‘no complaining’ Core Value.  Second, consider what would happen if we didn’t have our customers.  I know, it sounds simple and ridiculous, but without our customers there is no need for us to be here.

The next time you feel like you “have to” do something consider shifting your thought process and realize that you “get to” do something.  You “get to” go to work while there are so many people unemployed or without the opportunity to work.  You “get to” live in this free country while so many are suffering in other less friendly environments.  You “get to” wake up today while so many others have had their lives cut short by illness or tragedy.

Shift your mindset to focus on feeling blessed instead of stressed.  Be grateful for the opportunity to live and work.  If you’re stuck in a “have to” mindset, give this a shot and I’m confident that it will change your entire personality and you will lead a happier life.

IMPORTANT NOTE:  Your teammates (co-workers) are also your customers! Treat them accordingly.

11. U Never Get a 2ND Chance to Make a 1ST Impression

I have to give a shout out to my father on this Core Value.  I wish I had a dollar for every time I heard this growing up.  My father was a true motivator, teacher, and mentor for me as it relates to Core Values.  He has spent his entire life helping others, instilling core values, and working for change in the world.  I’m blessed to have a father that is a far better man than I am.  Luckily for me he always had (and has) extremely high expectations of me.

Think about the power of this simple saying:  “You never get a 2nd chance to make a 1st impression!”  This not only holds true when you meet someone for the first time, it also holds true the first time you talk to someone or see someone during the day.  If you make a bad first impression that sets the tone for the rest of the relationship or the rest of the day, week, month, etc.

Always think about the impact you have on someone the first time you meet them or the first time you see them.  If you concentrate on this it will help everyone in accomplishing Core Value #1 which is to Have Fun!

Wrap-Up

These two Core Values can really make or break your business and can impact every aspect of your personal life. Treat your customers, co-workers, and employees with kindness, respect and always try to make a good impression and you will go far in business and life.

I’ll wrap up our Core Values in my next installment. Don’t miss my discussion on open communication and helping everyone excel to greater heights!