There's many a slip 'tween the cup and the lip.
— English proverb
I've always loved this 2nd-century proverb.
We 21st-century folks—quick to shun responsibility—like to say instead, "Shit happens."
But the ancient proverb puts the onus on the individual, not the universe.
The individual is where the slip so often begins.
Business people are always slipping up: dropping the ball, laying an egg, spoiling the party.
It seems to worsen every day.
Of course, a lot of us have too much to do.
But a whole lot of us are just plain sloppy and unprofessional.
As my parents would say, "You can't get good service anymore."
Please don't contribute to the problem.
Instead, today, try to:
- Show up
- Call back
- Keep the appointment
- Follow through
- Pay attention
- Speak plainly
- Be honest
- Offer to help
- Find an answer
- Keep your promise
And, for god's sake:
- Don't send me a survey every time I interact with you.
Chances are, it will reach me when I'm in a foul mood.
