79. Impeccable Service from the Stall Vendor

This happened at one of the small-scale bazaars at Mercury Ville, Bangkok. This lady was manning the accessories stall selling earrings, necklaces, bracelets and the like. Immediately, one could tell there was something different about her.

I was at the cafe right opposite her stall enjoying my cappuccino, and I observed that no matter whether she was busy tending to other customers, she would always be alert and ready to greet those coming near her stall. Her smile was genuine and did not dissipate even though many of the passerby were, well, just passing by. After finishing my drink, I decided to check out her stall.

The stall lady warmly welcomed me and gave me the space the browse around. When I enquired about the different materials, she explained which were more solid versus those that would bend more easily. They have a factory to produce their own designs and that their products were distributed in Australia, Dubai and Korea. She then showed the accessories she had been wearing for the past three years and demonstrated that the condition of these items remained like brand new with the right care. 

I realised she was the designer herself and I asked if she distributed her products at any of the malls or departmental stores. She shared that the final marked up prices would make it more prohibitive for the audience. 

"For me, I would like to extend the affordability of quality accessories with my designs - done with my passion - to my customers. I hope many people get to enjoy it." she said sincerely.

I appreciated her way of thinking and decided to get two pairs of earrings as small gifts. Even though the total price was less than 500THB (approximately USD15), the lady extended a 10% discount, "because I enjoyed talking with you!" How lovely!

She also advised me to wipe the pieces before and after wearing each time as that would ensure they last longer. It was also very thoughtful of her to provide me with extra back stoppers for the earrings as the ones I have chosen were more malleable. "Just in case...." she quipped with a smile as she helped to wrap them up with care.

As I walked away with my little paper bag, I felt uplifted by the lady's positivity, passion, sincerity and upbeat nature. I am certain that the service and interaction from my 500THB purchase surpassed many of those fancy high-priced retail boutiques.

I silently wished for her business to succeed the way she would like it to be.


Reflective thoughts: How would you/your team showcase their positivity, passion, sincerity and sense of pride in what they do? Give specific behavioural responses or gestures.

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