the importance of customer service

My parents taught me to be kind to people. Of course, I was instructed not to talk to strangers. But as I became an adult, talking to strangers became part of my job.

First as a barista at a small coffeeshop, then as a managing editor, and even now as an ad trafficker, I have had the customer's feelings at the forefront.

I have always taken great care to treat other people with kindness, politeness, and to let them know that I am there to help. Until our stranger-trust is broken (say, a woman who orders an extra-hot latte complains that it's not exactly 178 degrees, when I'm the one with the thermometer in the milk; or when a client complains to me about not receiving a file when they haven't sent it in the first place), I act with utmost kindness--and often act with that same attitude even after the unspoken contract of niceties has been breached.

I can't say the same goes for our current property management company. As my friends and colleagues know, they have done everything short of spit on us (and I bet if Ryan or I showed up at their office, they would do just that). They have hung up on us. They have refused to speak to us. They have written letters, sent certified mail, that allege Ryan and I have lied to them in writing.

Wow. They are JERKS!

And the things that are broken with our duplex? Not fixed.

I have never been in such a ridiculous situation. Today topped it off. I called up to the office and when I said my name, the woman who answered said, "I've been instructed not to speak to you."

I am NOT the kind of person with whom people are instructed not to speak. In fact, it is absurd for me to be in this situation. I am not gloating or bragging--but I have never been so difficult that someone has just stopped talking to me. (Ok, maybe Ryan gave me the silent treatment once or twice...) But on a professional level? I don't think so.

Ryan and I are livid.

We are trying to find any loophole possible to get out of this lease. Sadly, whether they be angels or assholes (they're the latter), we are probably stuck with them. For 18 months.

My advice to you is:

1. Always check businesses out before you sign into a long agreement in which you'll be paying them exuberant sums of money. Try the Better Business Bureau
2. If you're in a crappy situation, know that you are not alone. Look into tenant rights, advisory councils, and (again) the BBB.
3. Above all, do NOT let a crappy situation destroy your closest friendships and relationships. Don't take your anger out on those near you. Write angry letters and post angry blogs!

Case in point! :)

Thank you for reading. And leave me a comment if you want to know who NOT to lease from!!!!