At Your Service by Margaret Inge is a weekly column that examines a number of business issues directly related to the Central Catskills’ service economy.
Perhaps the thing I love most about the Catskill Best Service Awards is that it gives me the opportunity (excuse) to talk at length to area business people about their businesses. This year I went one step further and also had random conversations with customers about their experiences. What I heard challenged many of my beliefs about the condition of our local economy and businesses.
What a week! On Monday, we were looking back in wonder to the “Miracle on the Hudson,” when one year ago Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger landed his disabled plane in the middle of the river, saving the lives of all on board.
The holiday gift giving is behind us; but for businesses, the gift receiving goes on. Despite the fact that we have to work for it, every customer sale is a gift to us. There is tremendous value in taking this point of view toward our customers.
by Maggie Inge
We come to the end of the year and with it, the end of a decade. A new millennium is off to a start riddled with monumental troubles and historic changes. It is a period most are happy to put behind us; yet, there is cause for hope as we look forward.
‘Tis the season in a time that is difficult for many and challenging for most. The pressure to give gifts worthy of our relationships calls and it is very difficult to answer without spending beyond our means. Yet the simple truth is that no amount of money can buy what matters most to those we love.
