Many people tell me that a favorite place to stop for a treat is Starbucks. Not only is the product great, but there is something in the air (or the hiring process) that lends itself to outgoing, helpful and downright great people– the secret to Starbucks success. This positive attitude not only creates loyal customers, but also builds mutually beneficial relationships between customers and employees.
Lihua Wang, a friend of our family, works at the Starbucks in Westfield, NJ. Her customers love her so much that they routinely surprise her with vegetables from their garden, holiday gifts and one even gave her a brand new food processor after she mentioned that she wanted one, but found them to be too expensive. They do this because Lihua knows that Dr. Mitch likes his oatmeal plain and Susie’s “usual” is a skinny, no foam latte.
Last week I held a meeting at our local Starbucks and wouldn’t you know that the nice man behind the counter told me how great my outfit looked. That “pick-me up” experience made my day and will bring me back.
In sum, make the most of your work. Having a great attitude at work makes an impression on those you work with and for. And who knows, that positive attitude might just lead to some great new personal and professional connections.