I just went to visit Willard (not really his name) at McFabulous Draperies (not really his company name) who is one of our top clients and not a happy camper. A couple of months ago I made the very boneheaded decision to ignore his answering machine message thinking that he would call someone else at the office who would handle his question. It turns out that he really did want to talk specifically to me, and was truly offended that I did not return his call.
I visited said offendee today, with hat (and scones) in hand, to deliver my honest, sincere, and excuse-free apology. It was graciously received, but time will only tell if the bridge has been burned beyond repair.
This experience was a powerful and valuable reminder that every company we deal with is run by people who don’t just want respect, they need it and demand it. I was reminded that every professional relationship has a personal element that can be subtle and easily overlooked. Relationships of all flavors are delicate and perishable and we would all be very wise to treat them as such.
Over 40 and still learning,
Jay
