Recently I've been on the receiving end of both tr

Recently I've been on the receiving end of both truly awesome and truly horrific customer service. I've also received service that technically, should have been good but left me adrift. It's caused me to take a deep look at how I treat my own customers. Here are just a few of the things that I've noticed in my life lately and the client service lessons that I've learned from them.

1. I was at a gas station and the attendant washed my windows. I thought, "Wow, I don't remember the last time a gas station attendant washed my windows! I wish this station was closer to my house." By the way, in case you're wondering I live in NJ, there are no self-service pumps here.

Lesson: Surprise your clients. Do something special that is not part of your normal package or program. It could be a small gift, a gesture, a note, quick phone call, email or whatever. Show them that you care about them and that you are happy to have them as your client.

2. I was waiting in a doctor's office when a nurse walked through the waiting room and had a side conversation with the receptionist. She was mocking a patient and said "I won't pay my co-pay but I love you guys". I thought "Hey, don't you realize