September 7th
► Tom and Nancy J. from Hollis, NH submitted a comment card rating us as excellent in their general shopping experience. They remarked we were “very helpful – explaining how the vacuum we bought works.” When asked if any members of our team did an unusually good job, they stated “Tod – very personable.” They also said that not one of our team members did an unusually bad job. They thought our sales help in general was excellent stating “I had to come back to return our vacuum, which was not working – no problem at all.” Our operations were excellent with good communication throughout the store. As far as our products performing, they were excellent. They said “So far the second one is fine.” When asked if they would recommend us to a friend, they stated “And we have!”
► Advertising, weekly specials, and all department promotions continue from last week: Winter Pool Covers. This month’s color is gray.
► Free Cookies and Pastries in the coffee shop the weekend of September 12-13th, while supplies last.
► There were 39 One-Of-These Awards for August; 23 for customer service. Finalists were Anne-Marie, Joe Corriveau, Landon, Tod, and Sarah. Patrick’s choice was Sarah. Drawing winner was Sean. Congratulations and thank you to all.
► Thank you very much for the beautiful flowers you sent to Jeanne.
► I just heard of the new study that suggests that 32 is the age when you turn into your parents.
► You do not use a full 10k kit for a 5,000 gallon pool. You use ½ of a kit – ½ of each bottle. Here’s a hint: the sign tells you how many gallons a kit does. If you do not have that many gallons, it’s the wrong kit. So the small kit is for 7,000 to 14,000 gallons. So for less than 7,000 gallons you use 1/2 or 1/3 of a kit.
► Submitted by Jen,
Weekly Fire Alarm Tip: Acting assistant managers should make an intercom announcement for all to calmly evacuate the building at the closest exit. Customers should be instructed to leave product and meet at the gazebo. Verify that customers are leaving immediately and check the bathrooms for occupied lights. Check warehouse doors for closure.
Fire alarm procedures are tested once a quarter. Your score on this test plays a part in the amount of your quarterly bonus. A complete answer key is returned with each graded test. If you would like another copy, please ask Jen.
► Did you know that according to two of our employees who shopped at a local pool store last month, that they are selling above ground pools without packages. (Why? Because they are out of filters). I assume you know.
They are advising people to install the pool now, leave it empty, and buy a package next year. That’s the only way the customer gets those low current prices- to take it now. Why install now? So that it can’t be returned. And to keep installers busy now, and allow for more installation of 2014 pools in the spring.
So I assume you have already been taught to mention in your current presentation:
1. We have everything in stock to make a package deal right now.
2. Except for the few pools on the back of the sale sheet, they don’t have to take it now to get the sale price.
3. If they install now, which beats the installation rush in spring, they should fill the pool, balance the water, and cover it- with the free cover they get in our sale package. Why? Because an empty uncovered pool can be blown down in a storm, the liner can shrink; it will void the warranty, and be incredibly difficult to clean.
I assume you understand how that would make you look honest and professional, and them look like…
► The heat gasket on the Saffire grill is a non-combustible wool felt. It is easily replaced, we stock it, and it only costs $9.99.
► Things could be worse! Work place stories from Reader’s Digest:
“After I’d been working in a small marketing agency for two years, my boss called me into his office one afternoon and told me I was finally receiving a promotion and a raise. I was elated. But when I reminded him about it the next day, he reneged. I started to argue, but he cut me off. “You know better than to take me seriously in the afternoons,” he said. “I’m drunk every afternoon.” by Elizabeth B., Georgia