Where Has Great Customer Service Gone?––DATCU Credit Union

Where Has Great Customer Service Gone?

Courtesy DATCU Credit Union

I’m sure there are still quite a few of us around who enjoyed The Andy Griffith Show. The show gave us everyday insight into the life of widowed sheriff Andy Griffith, his son Opie, Aunt Bea, and Andy’s sidekick Barney Fife in the fictional town of Mayberry. It was a simple time and many of us identified with Andy, his family, and the values of the times. Recently, as I sat and nostalgically watched old re-runs, it occurred to me that a whole lot has changed. My mind immediately thought of good, old-fashioned customer service.

It might appear to be a distant memory for many of us. Think about it––how often do you call a business and get an automated voicemail or answering machine? So much of the time, it’s push “1” for this and push “2” for that. Finally, at the end of a litany of options, you push “0” to speak to a customer representative and wait in the queue for minutes on end. Frustrating? Yes, indeed!  What about professionalism? I don’t even think some folks know the meaning of the word. It was once commonplace to get a prompt return phone call when leaving a message or to receive a warm greeting when entering a place of business. When you walked into a business establishment, you were known by name and greeted like a best friend. It was an expectation for an employee to give good sound advice, offer outstanding service, have product knowledge, and offer a great product. Sometimes, I feel that people just don’t care whether I do business with them or not.

I know that many of you are shaking your head in agreement with me. Yet, I want to encourage you that companies with these good old-fashioned values and customer service do exist today.  Sure, they might be harder to find, but there are businesses and organizations out there today that are professional and readily accessible when you need them. These establishments truly care about customer service and value their customers or members. Businesses where phones are answered promptly and you speak to a live person; where professionalism is a cornerstone of the corporate culture. They are organizations that don’t just talk the talk, but actually walk the walk and have a passion for their customers. These are definitely the ones that I chose to do business with. I know, because as President/CEO of a large and very well respected credit union in North Texas, it is a part of our culture. For us, it is not a choice, but an expectation.

Sometimes we may long for days gone by, but they’re still here. Don’t fret. Pay close attention, do a little research, and listen to your friends and neighbors. Usually those companies with a good strong reputation are the same ones you’ll find who value “you” as a customer. Those companies who strive for excellence, exceed customer expectations, and say “thank you” will be the ones serving your families 50 years from now. Good customer service never goes out of style.

Dale Kimble, President / CEO of DATCU Credit Union, can be reached at 866-387-8585.