Tuesday, March 9, 2010

People Skills

It never ceases to amaze me that so many individuals lack people skills. I understand that we are all different, but PLEASE, choose your job accordingly. If interacting with people is not your thing, why would you choose a job that requires you to do so? Last week I had the pleasure of encountering several people who had definitely chosen the wrong line of work. My first encounter was at my daughter’s elementary school. Once a week I pick up my kindergartener from school so that we can make it to gymnastics on time. And once a week I get the pleasure of seeing one of the teachers from her school walk by me looking completely miserable. I have never seen this lady smile or even look directly at one of her students. I not only feel bad for her (since she obviously doesn’t enjoy her job), but I also feel bad for the children who must suffer along with her. As a former teacher, I know how important is to make a connection which each child. Without this connection the children will never be able to reach their full potential. (**People Skills to work on: Connecting, smiling, engaging Suggestion: Become a writer, Go into researching, Teach adults)

My second encounter of the week was with a nurse at the doctor’s office. Now I don’t about you, but I never enjoy going to the doctors. However, I know that I can always count on the nurses to make me feel comfortable and at ease. This particular office though, I have never had a pleasant nurse (But I love the doctor). After I was called back I was greeted with a blank stare and a well-defined frown. Although taken aback, I looked at her and said, “Good Morning!”. She somehow managed a small nod in response. After walking back she stood next to the scale and waited. She didn’t ask me to step on, just expected it. And from then on out, we went through the nurses procedures in silence. She somehow managed to do her entire job and only say one word, my name. (**People skills to work on: Polite conversation, smiling, connecting, eye contact, act welcoming    Suggestions: Go work in the hospital with unconscious patients, Go into research)

What unpleasant encounters have you had? What do you believe are good people skill qualities to possess? Grab a latte, put up your feet, and join the discussion!

14 comments:

Audrey said...

Oh dear. One of my oldest son's friends decided to get a job at McD's. He doesnt' talk to anyone - so we were wondering how he would manage even saying "do you want fries with that?". He did manage to last almost 2 months :)
I'm trying very hard to remember peoples names and if I see them say "Good morning" + the name. Names are very hard for me sometimes - never forget a face though.

Katrina said...

I can imagine businesses hate when I come around. Before I decided to stay home with my son I managed a salon. I am definitely that crazy person telling grumpy employees that a smile goes a long way. I absolutely will not give any business my business if they have poor customer service.

Lafe's Hidden Treasures said...

You said completely. I don't like calling about a product only to get someone who would rather be home taking their life out on family. Thank you for following my blog. Have a nice day.

Sam said...

Oh my gosh. Couldn't agree more. I work at a restaurant, and some of my co-workers can barely muster up a smile when going to their tables... Then they complain about not getting good tips. I hope they don't think I'm kidding when I "joke" that perhaps they are "in the wrong line of work".

I especially agree about the teachers.. If you're going to teach, especially young kids, you have to WANT to be there. It's part of why I switched my major, I was afraid that whether or not I actually liked the job would negatively effect the kids, and as a school hater myself, I know how much it stinks to go through 13 years of school when you don't want to be there.

Pamela Scott said...

what a great post calling attention to the one thing lacking today, its sad.. people walk around like zombies a Good morning and a smile would go a long way..sometimes you just want to shake a person and say WAKE-UP!! GReat post I really enjoyed it and love your blog I am off to check it all out.

Kimberly said...

oh I just became a follower too!!

Kimberly said...

Kel~great post this morning! I couldn't agree with you more! My Mom is sick and we have encountered a few unfriendly people going to so many offices. Actually she just switched her gyno cause he has no bedside manner. A GOOD doctor but when your sick - a smiley, happy, encouraging face MAKES THE WORLD OF DIFFERENCE.

Krystyn @ Really, Are You Serious? said...

Oh, it's such a pet peeve to have people in the "service" industry that don't want to serve me. Hello, I didn't pick your job!

Shanilie said...

Oh wow I completely understand. It is crazy how many people are so not cut out for working with people. Just the other day I was at the hardware store and asked for help getting down a large car seat box off of the shelf, and the worked just stared off with a blank expression saying I could pay for it then Id have to go to customer service to get it :SS huh, seriously, I usually pay for something after it is in my hands.

Kara said...

Love this post! I encounter people every day who need to try a new line of work. Usually, I befriend these people. It's a challenge to me to get them to talk or smile or whatever. I just pour on the sugar and am always amazed at how many people will change their attitudes. Okay, not always but sometimes:)

Tiffany said...

I am always met with someone rude at a restaurant that completely ignores my existence. I now there are lots of customers but the least someobe can say is, "hello, I'll be with you in a minute.'

Tiffany
http://liferequiresmorechocolate.blogspot.com

Jennifer K said...

I found you on Friday Follow. I totally know what you mean about people in certain professions. We call it customer "no" service in my family.

Check out my blog when you get a chance! http://giveawaysforyou.blogspot.com/

Too Fabulous To Be Broke said...

So sorry that happened to you. I am amazed at how many people talk on their cell phones at work. I was at a local coffee shop that I love...trying to support small business. The barista kept me waiting while she discussed her plans for the evening, what she was wearing, and the adorable (her word not mine) guy she was dating. So annoying. It's time to start making my espressos at home.

Dede said...

People skills are important and with technology, we are losing them!

I hope to see a blog about rude cell phone users here:) That has become my pet peeve!!