It’s great to be on friendly terms with your co-workers. An atmosphere that is congenial attracts people (a.k.a. customers) who want to be a part of the good vibes you and your workmates are putting out.  Just be sure that you don’t get so involved while you’re having a conversation or otherwise connecting with your fellow salary-earners that you overlook customers or worse, think of them as secondary to the people you work with. Here’s an example of what I mean.

After a busy day of running around, my other half and I decided we were just not in the mood to cook or go out to dinner, so we decided to pick up a pizza. It took about 10 minutes to phone in the order because the guy who answered the phone couldn’t seem to get it right. He repeated the request back with the wrong size, crust type or toppings not once, but THREE TIMES! I articulate pretty well, clearly he wasn’t listening to a word I said.

When we arrived to pick up our order, there were two people working the front end.  A young woman who was seating customers…and our guy. He was busy watching her. Probably a bit smitten if you ask me, but the point is he looked at her, the seating chart then walked over and looked at the cash register (Which we were standing right in front of) and yet, he didn’t seem to see us even though we were the only customers in the front area at that time.  The hostess returned and he immediately started a conversation with her.  They didn’t note us standing there for a couple of minutes when the hostess looked up and saw that we looked pretty irritated.  She came over and took care of us while her coworker disappeared to parts unknown.  She was upbeat and efficient, but it was too late.  The opportunity for them to provide great customer service had passed. 

Sadly it wouldn’t have taken much to turn this situation into a good customer experience.  Whenever a customer walks in you need to respond immediately with a greeting and a smile, it’s why they put you near the door! If you are having a conversation when a customer approaches (It’s ok we all do it.) end it immediately, mid-sentence if you have to, if it seems that the moment would be awkward, include the customer in on the fun. Just make sure you instantly turn your focus on the customer and their needs.  So Yes! Have fun with your coworkers; just don’t forget why you’re there.