My new role model

[susandennis]

I've encountered reception people in 2 different unemployment offices 3 different times now.  

The first 2 times were each women who were seated and barely looked up from their computers to tell me to 'sign in and wait over there'...

Today, there was a young man - cute, actually - who was standing.  When I got there he was helping a girl figure out what her next steps might be.  He was so thoughtful and nice and kind and helpful with her and totally ignored the ever growing line accummulating behind me.  I was early and didn't care and was fascinated by his manner.

Then it was my turn.  He looked me right in the eye and complimented me on my scarf and asked me to sign in and then he looked me up on the computer and determined that I didn't need to fill out the form and then told me that there would be about a 10 minute wait and I should feel free to use the computers or sit over at some tables nearby. 

I sat at the tables and watched him.  He never sat down once.  He greeted each person so carefully and thoughtfully - looking each in the eye and giving them a giant welcoming smile.  He had such energy and vibrancy.

As I was leaving, I noticed there was no one in line but he still wasn't sitting.  He was talking with a coworker but standing and looking him in the eye and smiling.  

I want to work with that guy.  I want to be as nice as that guy.  I want to be as kind and as thoughtful.

There's no chance in hell but I will strive to remember him and maybe a little of him will rub off.

Comments

[mrdreamjeans.livejournal.com]

Isn't wonderful to see someone who gets it? I'd hire him in a minute for the opening I have in leasing! I interviewed two women today; one made a bad impression; the other was dynamic and engaging.

it's kinda too bad

[henare.livejournal.com]

because the folks who work at the unemployment office have to deal with a lot of grumpy people ... and vice versa. someone who obviously has it on the ball like this should be recognized as such.

Re: it's kinda too bad

[susandennis]

My initial thought was that he was wasting his talents but then I thought maybe he's in the one place where he could do the most good. To some of the people - maybe even a lot - who come through there he may be the only face they encounter who gives them both good cheer and respect.

[kyrielle]

If you want to - you might send an email to let his supervisors know what a gem they have also. Recognition rocks. :)

[susandennis]

Yep... The guy I met with wanted me to send him some info via email so when I did, I asked for the name and email of the manager and explained why, so the receptionist should get double recs.