Check out this new site I heard about…. www.rottenneighbor.com.
It touts itself as being "the first real estate search engine of its kind to provide ratings and reviews of good and bad neighbors across the world."
Go ahead and search your street…you know you want to!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Saturday, June 7, 2008
I'm Finally Getting Organized!
I've been at my current job as PR Director for a public library for more than three years. It's a busy job and I always have 14 different projects going at once. It's great (and stressful) and I thrive on this kind of chaos, but it's a lot and the ever-growing piles of paperwork, newsletters, fliers, articles, etc., etc., etc., are getting to be a problem.
I consider myself a pretty organized person and though my office is a disaster, there is method to my madness. I pretty much know where everything is, but it's not just me anymore. I hired an assistant about six months ago and she's fabulous. Now that we are working together on tons of stuff, we both need access to my files. The problem is that right now only I know my system and we need to create something that works for both of us. Plus, I'm sick of the piles and I'm ready to do a little make-over project!
This week I got an e-mail from See Jane Work, the "destination for office style and organization," and was instantly inspired. I love this Web site. I've shopped here before (I have a slight stationery-abuse habit) and I thought if I have to get organized I'm doing it with style. This site has everything from binders and file folders to desktop organization and storage (all things I need) and even some great eco-chic products like recycled notebook paper (with vegetable based ink) and this great staple-free stapler. Everything is amazing. Click, click , click. It should be here by next week. I love online shopping.
So the paperwork well on it's way to being tamed. Now for creative storage with some decoration, too. I'm going for this look, but not for this price tag. So it was off to the Container Store. My assistant and I were in the office shelving area and she knew way more than I did about all this stuff (what is a wall anchor and why do I need one?) but we were still having issues finding everything. While she was looking for the right brackets, I was more interested in this green vase that was on display in one of the little office set-up examples, you know the ones with the cardboard computer. They had three of these green vases, but no price. My assistant insisted that it was just part of the decoration, but I thought no way would a store display things that were not for sale. That's crazy. Finally we (OK, she) got all the right shelves (with no help from a single store employee, ahem!) and I had this vase that I was determined to buy. Sure enough....it was NOT for sale! The clerk told me it was from Crate and Barrel and they just have it there for decoration! That's insane to me. They should either put on the bottom "for display only/not for sale" or how about this....have stuff that people can actually buy!! This concept seems so simple to me. Does the Container Store not like making money?
Luckily, there is a Crate and Barrel right next to the Container Store. I love Crate and Barrel. I could be in there for hours shopping for nothing, but this time I was actually there to get some decorations. Of course they no longer had the vase that the Container Store is used (three of!) just for decoration. But I did find a great mirror and a few other things. The clerk that helped us was really great. I think her name was Denise and she knew all about art and how the different vases and plates they had were inspired by big-time artists. She was nice. A great shopping experience.
So that's how I'm getting orgazined. I know it sounds like I just went shopping, but...well, ok, now it's time to actually do the work. It's going to be tough. I hate throwing stuff away, oh the anxiety of it all. But it will be good and it all starts tomorrow. I'll post some before and after photos (HGTV-style) once it's complete! Wish me luck!
I consider myself a pretty organized person and though my office is a disaster, there is method to my madness. I pretty much know where everything is, but it's not just me anymore. I hired an assistant about six months ago and she's fabulous. Now that we are working together on tons of stuff, we both need access to my files. The problem is that right now only I know my system and we need to create something that works for both of us. Plus, I'm sick of the piles and I'm ready to do a little make-over project!
This week I got an e-mail from See Jane Work, the "destination for office style and organization," and was instantly inspired. I love this Web site. I've shopped here before (I have a slight stationery-abuse habit) and I thought if I have to get organized I'm doing it with style. This site has everything from binders and file folders to desktop organization and storage (all things I need) and even some great eco-chic products like recycled notebook paper (with vegetable based ink) and this great staple-free stapler. Everything is amazing. Click, click , click. It should be here by next week. I love online shopping.
So the paperwork well on it's way to being tamed. Now for creative storage with some decoration, too. I'm going for this look, but not for this price tag. So it was off to the Container Store. My assistant and I were in the office shelving area and she knew way more than I did about all this stuff (what is a wall anchor and why do I need one?) but we were still having issues finding everything. While she was looking for the right brackets, I was more interested in this green vase that was on display in one of the little office set-up examples, you know the ones with the cardboard computer. They had three of these green vases, but no price. My assistant insisted that it was just part of the decoration, but I thought no way would a store display things that were not for sale. That's crazy. Finally we (OK, she) got all the right shelves (with no help from a single store employee, ahem!) and I had this vase that I was determined to buy. Sure enough....it was NOT for sale! The clerk told me it was from Crate and Barrel and they just have it there for decoration! That's insane to me. They should either put on the bottom "for display only/not for sale" or how about this....have stuff that people can actually buy!! This concept seems so simple to me. Does the Container Store not like making money?
Luckily, there is a Crate and Barrel right next to the Container Store. I love Crate and Barrel. I could be in there for hours shopping for nothing, but this time I was actually there to get some decorations. Of course they no longer had the vase that the Container Store is used (three of!) just for decoration. But I did find a great mirror and a few other things. The clerk that helped us was really great. I think her name was Denise and she knew all about art and how the different vases and plates they had were inspired by big-time artists. She was nice. A great shopping experience.
So that's how I'm getting orgazined. I know it sounds like I just went shopping, but...well, ok, now it's time to actually do the work. It's going to be tough. I hate throwing stuff away, oh the anxiety of it all. But it will be good and it all starts tomorrow. I'll post some before and after photos (HGTV-style) once it's complete! Wish me luck!
Saturday, March 29, 2008
The Mall, Part I
Wow, I can't believe it's been more than a month since my last post. But that doesn't mean I haven't been out and about mentally rating and reviewing!
First off, whoever said the economy is plummeting, has not been to the Cherry Hill Mall on a Saturday.
I don't go to the mall very often, much less on a weekend. I much prefer stand-alone stores or online shopping (better service, not as crowded). But damn, the mall was crazy crowded today! It took me about 15 minutes, driving all over, just to find a parking space! I know they have construction going on (a Nordstrom is coming, yay!!!) but I don't think that's why the lot was so packed. I just think everyone was at the mall. And as excited as I am about the Nordstrom, I can't even imagine how much crazier the mall is going to be once it opens.
All in all, my mall experience was pretty good today. I got a jacket (that I'll probably return) and some shoes (come to think of it, I may return those, too) and some great accessories (I'm keeping all of those!) so I might have to go back to the mall in a few days...I'm just going to go at 11 a.m. on a Tuesday.
Mall Cheers: Lens Crafters (made an eye appointment - very easy, no wait), The Limited (helpful associates who know their merchandise), Macy's Shoe Department (fast service)
Mall Jeers: The Parking Lot (not really sure what can be done about that), Ann Taylor (no greeting/service), Macy's Clothing Section (very loud music...they had some kind of "event" going on, but I couldn't think with all that noise...hence the jacket I'm going to return!)
First off, whoever said the economy is plummeting, has not been to the Cherry Hill Mall on a Saturday.
I don't go to the mall very often, much less on a weekend. I much prefer stand-alone stores or online shopping (better service, not as crowded). But damn, the mall was crazy crowded today! It took me about 15 minutes, driving all over, just to find a parking space! I know they have construction going on (a Nordstrom is coming, yay!!!) but I don't think that's why the lot was so packed. I just think everyone was at the mall. And as excited as I am about the Nordstrom, I can't even imagine how much crazier the mall is going to be once it opens.
All in all, my mall experience was pretty good today. I got a jacket (that I'll probably return) and some shoes (come to think of it, I may return those, too) and some great accessories (I'm keeping all of those!) so I might have to go back to the mall in a few days...I'm just going to go at 11 a.m. on a Tuesday.
Mall Cheers: Lens Crafters (made an eye appointment - very easy, no wait), The Limited (helpful associates who know their merchandise), Macy's Shoe Department (fast service)
Mall Jeers: The Parking Lot (not really sure what can be done about that), Ann Taylor (no greeting/service), Macy's Clothing Section (very loud music...they had some kind of "event" going on, but I couldn't think with all that noise...hence the jacket I'm going to return!)
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
QVC Tops My List
OK, it's official. The retail equivalent of my Prince Charming is QVC.
I've been a QVC shopper for about a year. I mostly buy jewelry and beauty products (no Quaker Factory here - that stuff scares me). Anyway, since day one I've been totally amazed by their outstanding customer service. From the ease of phone and online ordering, to their no-questions-asked return policy, they have yet to let me down. But today's experience was above and beyond.
Over the weekend I ordered two products from the philosophy line (If you are a fan, check it out.
They have amazing values offered no where else). I ordered the Amazing Grace 3-in-1 shower gel and the Amazing Grace hair conditioner. I received the order today. The box contained two separate boxes and the box that contained the conditioner was filled with Styrofoam peanuts. Yet, even with all that packaging the cap to the conditioner was broken off! I was a little bummed. Normally I wouldn't really care, but this is a product I plan on travelling with and without the cap it will spill everywhere. And besides, I'm on a mission. Gotta fill the blog!
So I called QVC Customer Service not really sure what to expect. I thought they might refund the shipping costs ($8.33) or give me a little credit toward a future purchase. In less then a minute I have a live person on the phone and I explain the situation. She gave me two options: #1. Refund the total cost of the conditioner ($23.61) or #2. send me a brand new bottle. I opted for #2, the replacement. Easy enough, right?! Then asked if I had to ship back the broken bottle...and she said "no." What?? No?? I get to keep the perfectly good conditioner in the broken bottle AND receive a new bottle in a few days? For free? No charges? Nope. No questions asked. Wow!
Thanks QVC (and philosophy)!
I've been a QVC shopper for about a year. I mostly buy jewelry and beauty products (no Quaker Factory here - that stuff scares me). Anyway, since day one I've been totally amazed by their outstanding customer service. From the ease of phone and online ordering, to their no-questions-asked return policy, they have yet to let me down. But today's experience was above and beyond.
Over the weekend I ordered two products from the philosophy line (If you are a fan, check it out.
They have amazing values offered no where else). I ordered the Amazing Grace 3-in-1 shower gel and the Amazing Grace hair conditioner. I received the order today. The box contained two separate boxes and the box that contained the conditioner was filled with Styrofoam peanuts. Yet, even with all that packaging the cap to the conditioner was broken off! I was a little bummed. Normally I wouldn't really care, but this is a product I plan on travelling with and without the cap it will spill everywhere. And besides, I'm on a mission. Gotta fill the blog!So I called QVC Customer Service not really sure what to expect. I thought they might refund the shipping costs ($8.33) or give me a little credit toward a future purchase. In less then a minute I have a live person on the phone and I explain the situation. She gave me two options: #1. Refund the total cost of the conditioner ($23.61) or #2. send me a brand new bottle. I opted for #2, the replacement. Easy enough, right?! Then asked if I had to ship back the broken bottle...and she said "no." What?? No?? I get to keep the perfectly good conditioner in the broken bottle AND receive a new bottle in a few days? For free? No charges? Nope. No questions asked. Wow!
Thanks QVC (and philosophy)!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Is the customer always right? Yes, but....
I came up with the idea for a blog about customer service about six months ago. After several experiences (both good and bad) with different retailers, doctor's offices and online sites, I decided that I would start blogging about my individual experiences (both good and bad) where I would name names and explain what happened to me, an average person/client just going about her life. I work in the Public Relations field and I've always been fascinated with marketing and advertising and how image, reputation and relationships can make or break a company. I'm also very brand loyal. When I find a product, company or service that I like, I'm usually a customer for life and I tell others about how great it is. Same goes for the opposite. When I have a bad experience I usually tell all, too. I actually think that my dream job would be a secret shopper - so I guess that is what the blog sort of is.
To me Customer Service is a fancy label for manners. Just like individuals should have good manners, businesses must have good manners (a.k.a. customer service) to succeed. Sure, I'm just one customer, but I'm giving my time and money to you. And any business without their clients is, well, out of business.
While I was in college I worked for the Nordstrom in Annapolis, MD. Nordstrom is known for their legendary customer service. I loved working there...I loved shopping there...I loved everything about it. I'd go back to work there in a heartbeat, but I have a good career, and besides...the closest Nordstrom to me is about an hour away...in another state. But I love the store, the company and most of all what they stand for.
While I was in new employee training at Nordstrom, we learned the technical basics like how to use the registers, clock in and out, etc., but after that we learned something I will never forget. I received their employee handbook. It was one page. Actually, smaller than one page. It was a 5x7 post card with this written on it: We have only one rule....Use good judgement in all situations. I love this. Nordstrom trusts its employees so much and is so confident that they've hired the right people to use their own good judgement to make the right decisions to represent the company. This is an amazing philosophy for a company to live by and I truly believe it's their secret to success. And it could be the secret to all of our successes if we took the time to decide what "good judgement" really means to us and live by it, too.
We've all heard the phrase "The customer is always right." I don't agree with that 100% (because I've seen the irate person in line at Starbucks getting testy with the barista for no reason) but I do believe that if I'm giving a business my time and money, I deserve to be treated with honesty and respect.
So, after all that, I bring you my blog, Customer Service Snob. Look out world...I'm shopping, I'm dining, I'm living my life and I'm taking notes and telling all.
To me Customer Service is a fancy label for manners. Just like individuals should have good manners, businesses must have good manners (a.k.a. customer service) to succeed. Sure, I'm just one customer, but I'm giving my time and money to you. And any business without their clients is, well, out of business.
While I was in college I worked for the Nordstrom in Annapolis, MD. Nordstrom is known for their legendary customer service. I loved working there...I loved shopping there...I loved everything about it. I'd go back to work there in a heartbeat, but I have a good career, and besides...the closest Nordstrom to me is about an hour away...in another state. But I love the store, the company and most of all what they stand for.
While I was in new employee training at Nordstrom, we learned the technical basics like how to use the registers, clock in and out, etc., but after that we learned something I will never forget. I received their employee handbook. It was one page. Actually, smaller than one page. It was a 5x7 post card with this written on it: We have only one rule....Use good judgement in all situations. I love this. Nordstrom trusts its employees so much and is so confident that they've hired the right people to use their own good judgement to make the right decisions to represent the company. This is an amazing philosophy for a company to live by and I truly believe it's their secret to success. And it could be the secret to all of our successes if we took the time to decide what "good judgement" really means to us and live by it, too.
We've all heard the phrase "The customer is always right." I don't agree with that 100% (because I've seen the irate person in line at Starbucks getting testy with the barista for no reason) but I do believe that if I'm giving a business my time and money, I deserve to be treated with honesty and respect.
So, after all that, I bring you my blog, Customer Service Snob. Look out world...I'm shopping, I'm dining, I'm living my life and I'm taking notes and telling all.
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