Friday, April 13, 2007

Top 10 Tips For Service Providers

I enjoy reading BBC Ouch's Top 10 lists, so I've made one of my own. (I'm also thinking that this might be a fun theme for a Blog Carnival.)

Top 10 Tips For Service Providers

1. Keep in mind that I am your client. Treat me and my needs with respect and care.

2. Show up on time; call if you’re going to be late. Respect the value of my time.

3. Look me in the eye. Talk to me, not to my parent or assistant.

4. Listen. Listen. Listen. Assumptions are the enemy. Let me explain my individual needs to you. Ask questions to clarify.

5. Offer your professional expertise.

6. Together, let's come up with possible solutions for my needs.

7. I don't expect you to know everything. When you don't know something, check with your colleagues, do some research and get back to me. Arrogance will not help us problem solve.

8. Stay focused on your job. Simple friendly pleasantries are fine; however, you were not hired to be my minister, my parent, or my buddy.

9. Follow through in a timely manner on any commitments you make. It's your job, and I'm counting on you.

10. Know that I am grateful for your services, expertise and a job well done.

5 comments:

Ruth said...

This is a great list.Glad you put it together! I particularly like number 8 - many times I've had the experience of service providers not doing their job and straying into other roles - I hate that. It feels patronizing and it distracts them from doing the job they're hired to do.

David said...

Yup. That's my biggest complaint, too. It happens all the time.

Jacqui said...

Thanks David. Can I use your list? I want to print if off to give to Moo's therapists. They are giving me the sh*ts.

Kathryn said...

I love this list. I want to give it to Ellie's carers too because they definitely don't always respect her time. Thanks for clarifying so many things that have been bugging me about the whole carer in your home, face, helping with you kid stuff.

David said...

Kathryn and Jacqui- No problem. Hope it's helpful.