On Customer Service

Perhaps I am just getting old...but I feel like customer service really needs to make a comeback. I am so happy when I am able to make connections with people when I am in need (or want) of good or services. The reason I buy so much Montblanc for myself and as gifts is that I have the absolute best salesperson...she knows what I like and don't like and if I need something fast she makes it happen! That in turns drives me to return the next time I am in search of something she might help me with. Now, especially at their price point, Montblanc should have this type of service, but the reality is that they don't have this everywhere. Maybe Montblanc was an imperfect example but apply this to anything. I am going to frequent Beach Books over a big anonymous bookseller because they know my name and when I walk in and they have a sense of what I enjoy reading. 

I realize that what I really have to offer here in this space is not just pens or paper, but my willingness and ability to try to get to know you and offer personal attention to what you may want or need that I can help you with. I enjoy helping someone pick out the perfect pen for their needs and I am serious when I offer to keep a list of special items you may want so I can look for than as well. I have, in the past, found a particular pen at auction and directed my customer there so they could buy it directly. Not ideal for my bottom line, but I think they will remember that when they need something I have in stock and hopefully brings their business back to me. 
Also, selfishly, it just makes me happy to connect people with something they have been looking for!