Your Attitude Makes your Business.
How successful a business maybe is determined by many factors. However; It’s your attitude and how
you treat your customers that really determine your success or failure. Some businesses
never learn that. On a recent visit to the wineries of Vancouver Island I encountered
shall we say the right and the wrong way of doing business.
I received an exceptionally warm welcome from the good folks
at Blue Grouse Vineyards in Duncan. I arrived early at the winery before
opening and walked around the grounds and building taking photographs. As I
walked along the outdoor patio area the door opened and I was greeted by Pamula
who addressed me by my surname Mr Bell. Pamela invited me inside and asked what
areas of the winery I would like to see. Remember the winery is still not open
I am early. You can read about my visit on the website www.winesofcanada.com
The following day I was scheduled to visit Deep Cove winery
in Saanich. I arrived early once again before opening. It was a cold rainy morning.
I waited until 5 minutes to 11 before testing the door. It was locked. As I did
at the winery the previous morning I wandered around the building. I was on the
patio where I could clearly see into the tasting room. There was an employee inside
She looked at me briefly and then turned away. She did not acknowledge my presents.
I returned to the car and waited for the door to open.
I entered the winery said hello to the young lady who
responded by asking” what can I do for you”
I told her I had arranged an appointment. She told me they
had no booking until 1 am. However, she sat me at a table and placed a very
small menu in front of me. I felt I had to explain that I was a writer and came to interview the owner
or winemaker and do a story on the winery.
After a brief conversation she asked me if she should find
the owner I said “yes” He appeared moments later leaned on the counter at the far
corner of the room and said “ I am here ask your questions” The conversation deteriorated
from there. I finally said, “I do not feel welcome here.” He said “that is my
problem". So I said, “I guess I will just leave.” He said that up to you. I said I
can write a negative article or a good one it is your choice. He said “I do not
care”
I left feeling quite shattered. I could not believe this man’s
attitude. Where there any other customers
in the winery- no. There was no need to wonder why!
I went on to the next winery walked in the door and within
seconds I was shaking the hand of the manager and being warmly greeted.
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