As Chair of the Finance Committee yesterday I took a historic step for our church and moved 4 of our accounts from a bank that has given us poor customer service to one that we expect will be much better in showing respect.

While on vacation I visited 4 financial institutions to inquire about what each could do to meet our needs.  One institution told me they were too busy and I should come back tomorrow.  Another handed me a brochure and told me I could choose any account I wanted.  The other two sat down with me and explained their features and also listened to my needs.  The bank we finally selected went an additional step and customized the account features to meet our specific needs.  They called me and kept me informed each step of the way through the process of account opening and obtaining the required signatures.

Whether you are a banker, a chaplain or any other type of employee customers (clients) recognize when you treat them with respect and they appreciate it.  Respect is not optional, it is the basic ingredient in every interaction!  Unfortunately respect seems not to be something you can’t depend on in our fast paced world.  As you show respect you will have an easier time building relationships in a world where more consistent respect is desperately needed.