Dealing with Rude People

My husband received a Starbuck's gift card for his birthday - don't worry it wasn't from me. On the card there was a little sticker that read, 'Register your card online for a free birthday drink'. So he did. We then went to said coffee giant to get the free drink. Now, there are two things that have really been irking me lately:
  1. people who don't communicate properly. I like to use the K.I.S.S. principle when communicating verbally with the public.
  2. rude 'customer service' clerks. Hey, I've worked in customer service my whole life from luxury retail sales to waitress at a raunchy pub - if you're having a bad day - grin and bear - don't ruin mine.
Said coffee giant provided us with both things on May 2nd. All I have to say is thank goodness I'd just finished reading, The Civility Solution: What to Do When People Are Rude.
Part Two: Situations and Solutions, The World of Service, is particularly good.

PS In the last week I've walked out of three restaurants due to below standard cleanliness. Please check the place out while you're on the way to your table.

In this day and age consumers have many choices. We won't settle for less than excellence. At least I know I won't.