How often do you find when you go out to use a service that people just don't seem to like their job? I always figured I spend way to much time, a third of my life at least, that I had better enjoy how I earn a living. I am lucky that I did find a job I liked when I was young because I think we tend to get trapped by circumstance. With any job there are always parts of our job we do not find pleasant. I always try to make the best of it, even if "it" is doing the laundry or grocery shopping or doing a quote. There isn't much point in getting grumpy over a job I have to do. So why do people do their job grumpy and negatively influence those around them? I would love to say I have the answer but I don't. I have had staff that I have talked to, pointed out they bring the team down when they are down with little or no effect. I don't expect everyone to be cheerful all the time but containing the black cloud that hangs over their head to just their head is not only considerate but also professional.

What I find annoying is when I am paying for a service and the person has the attitude that they are doing me a favour by taking my hard earned money, it is insulting. Business is always competitive and even more so lately so putting on a smile will go a long way. The recommendation of smiling before you pick up the phone will add the positive spin on your business presentation. Ever have someone pick up the phone when they were laughing at something and then give the office greeting? You can't help yourself, you are smiling before they have finished the greeting. That's really passing on the smile and setting a positive tone for the conversation. Keep smiling, it’s free and doesn’t hurt a bit.

The Embroidery Dinosaur

Beverley Field