Just Don't Take My Blankie
I travel a fair amount and I'm all for helping the airlines survive. I understood when they took the food away; I now travel with my own sandwich. I've learned to be patient and friendly at airport security even though I am bewildered at the inconsistencies (Why do I need to take my sandals off before boarding the flight to NY, but not have to take them off when boarding the plane from NY? Why do I show my ID once on the way there and twice on the way back?)
I'm neither patient nor understanding about the changes in the frequent flyer program. I'm livid at Delta since for years I gave my loyalty to them only to find that they are not giving it back to me. Oh well. Their competitors are enjoying my business now. I'll miss the upgrades, but am learning to live with the new realities, like shorter turnarounds at the gate.
If you've flown recently you may have noticed that you are being asked to help in the speedy turnaround of your plane. Before landing someone announces that your participation would be appreciated. Gather up your garbage and newspapers someone will be around shortly to collect them. Okay that makes sense; package up the trash while we're still in the air. And here comes the other announcement. "We'll be coming through the cabin to collect your pillows and blankets."
Oh yeah. Not on your life. I'm snuggled up over here wrapped in my little blue cocoon, I'm comfy, I'm happy, I'm secure. Take the garbage, but leave my blanket alone, until I'm ready to relinquish it.
This is where I draw the line. Linus isn't the only one who wants his blankie, I want mine too, until I'm ready to let go of it. Leave a hamper by the door, I'll drop it off.
All customers have a need to feel secure. They want to know that there are no risks doing business with you, they want to know they are physically and emotionally safe. They want to know that your products won't hurt them and neither will your people. They want to know that they are getting the value they thought they were. They want to know the information you give them is correct and accurate. They want to know you will safeguard their personal information and their privacy. They want to know they won't get in trouble with their boss if they buy your product.
Yep. All customers have a need for security - identify what those needs are in your business with your customers and make sure you get an "A+" in meeting them. In today's insecure world we need all the comfort and security we can get. Please don't take away my blankie.
