Networking. Education. Technology.

Would you hold hands with a total stranger?

Symbolically Speaking and literally speaking I have felt comfortable speaking to total strangers. I’ve met many interesting people and learnt a lot about different values and cultures. Because of my interest in business I’ve also learnt about the entrepreneurial spirit that so many South African’s possess.

But, back to holding hands with total strangers ...

Being in a wheelchair, often the helping hand comes from behind. So I don’t even see the stranger. Yet again I’ve met some really interesting people.

What about symbolically holding hands with a total stranger in a business context?
Now, we are moving in to the area of customer service and the role of branding in building credible business reputations. I recently had the most amazing customer service from Jonathan Brunton of Seeff’s Sandton branch.

With so many estate agents having well established brands, what differentiates Seeff in my mind is their level of exceptional customer service. Businesses and management often underestimate the role that agents or employees play as brand ambassadors in customers or clients’ perception of their brands.
Jonathan listened to what my specific needs were. He then found me what I needed - wheelchair access and centrally situated ... in a short timeframe.

Several estate agents had marketed directly to Symbolically Speaking. Some marketed indirectly using print and radio.

When I contacted various agents:
• Some did not even return my calls
• Some were so put out by the word “wheelchair” that they did not even try
• Some were going to have strategy meetings and get back to me
• Some told me it was impossible

Then there was Jonathan who even phoned me after 7pm saying I’m standing by the entrance with the security guard. There is a slight ramp and other people in wheelchairs live in and access this building. We arranged to meet and I thought I’d reached “wheelchair heaven/haven”.

My compliments and gratitude for exceptional customer service go to Jonathan Brunton of Seeff’s Sandton branch ... for going the extra mile ...

Visit www.symbolicallyspeaking.co.za and www.seeff.com

Tags: ambassadors, brand, branding, business, customer, service