Over the recent holiday weekend I played a a few games of checkers with my youngest nephews, the twins. At six years old they understand the game pretty well, including the idea of winning.
But, whenever one of them got too far ahead of their opponent, the game took an unusual turn.
A discussion ensued about changing things. Rules were bent. Accommodations were made. The losing player was allowed to add some checkers. Or the player who was winning would make a move that undercut his advantage.
The game changed. It continued longer. It was more fun.
Watching this it was clear, winning was not the goal for the boys. Being there was. Their focus was on doing something together with someone they cared about. It was about being in the present and enjoying it.
How often in our jobs lives do we forget to do this? (I do all the time.) Yet it’s one of the best things we can do for ourselves and those around us.
When we focus on the people we’re with, we are honoring them. We’re respecting our relationship with them. And we’re doing something good for them and us. We both win!
In the world of customer service this could be a game changer. It could help us give our customers the experience they want, the one that keeps them coming back again and again.
Other articles you might like:
- Put customers before tasks
- Remember to Have Fun
- What’s Your Job?
- 10 Things to Love About the Charlotte Airport
- Enjoy your work and you’ll deliver better customer service
