By Fire Chief Sam DiGiovanna

A recent survey shows Americans are more unhappy with the customer service they’re getting than ever. In fact 74% of Americans say they’ve had product or service problem in the past year, according to the 10th edition of the National Customer Rage Survey, which tracks satisfaction and incivility. The incidence of problems has more than doubled since 1976. If you want to be someone’s hero, provide them with good customer service!

Heros show up in different ways. Not all wear capes, uniforms, or are doctors, nurses or military personnel. Though we acknowledge them for their service while protecting us, we are all heroes in different ways & capacities.

My hero is a person whom I owe much gratitude due to the customer service he displayed during a difficult time. His name is Raymond Radas, a realtor with HomeSmart Professionals in La Quinta Ca. Raymond is nothing but a class act in so many ways. Professional on every count. Appearance, dressed, well-spoken, kind and compassionate who certainly knows his business in the real

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Approximately 25 years ago my parents moved to Indian Palms Country club. Life was great for them. Retired with golf and friends in a beautiful community. Sadly, as life has those unexpected turns, my mom past several years ago. It was tough. Then, my Dad recently passed. Heavy on the heart & in the mind. The house had so many fond memories it was hard to let it go. With apprehension, I had to make the decision to sale the family home we all loved.

I called Raymond and explained my situation. Raymond was extremely understanding and compassionate. He was very patient and understanding with me. No hard sale or pressure just discussed a few options. We finally decided the details and in days Raymond was hard at work to find the right family for our family home.

He knew that this was very personal. At my request he held no open houses. He brought in professionals to photograph the home and ensure it was staged in a manner that he knew was going to find the right buyers. After agreeing on a fair market value, Raymond had the home on the MLS, contacted agents individually throughout the valley with a strong marketing campaign. I never felt pressured.

Raymond went over and beyond that many that saved me time and expenses. It is evident Raymond has a “service before self” mindset with clients.

I was getting nervous knowing the summer and heat was upon us. Raymond never flinched. He never displayed any sign of doubt or defeat.

With summer approaching, I was losing hope, Raymond never flinched.

Then it happened… Raymond called me and said “Sam, I have the perfect buyers for the house.” A great family that saw the value and all it had to offer.

It was bittersweet. Selling the family home was heavy in my heart, however, I knew I had to move on and let go. God answered my prayers of a good family that would appreciate and enjoy the home.

When I’m ready to purchase again, I know the hero to summon. I would recommend Raymond to anyone looking to buy or sale, as he gets the job done with professionalism, integrity, compassion, and kindness while knowing these are big decisions with lots of associated stress.

The point of this article is that your organization must prioritize customer service and experience. Remember; “You are serving a customer, not a life sentence. Learn how to enjoy your work and give the customer the service they deserve.”

Thank you, Raymond!