Approximately four months ago I submitted a review of my very positive customer experience during several encounters at the Guitar Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. I concluded by stating that it is unusual for me to write reviews, but this exemplary run business was more than worthy of praise and gratitude. As such, I am presenting this sequel to my initial comments.
Since that previous submission, I have had occasion to patronize the Lincoln Guitar Center and make some major purchases. Once again, the professionalism and warm gracious treatment by its management and staff has inspired me to publicly express my gratitude and respect.
It should be noted that I am not a celebrity, rock star, or genius musician by any stretch of the imagination. That point, in and of itself, speaks to the fact that the Lincoln Guitar Center goes out of its way to make everyone who walks through their door feel welcome and important. During my visits, I have met and spoken with at least eight staff members and each of them have been accommodating and knowledgeable. No matter what instrument or genre of music you favor, there is a staff member on hand proficient in that sector.
During the past six months or so, I have purchased eight guitars from the Lincoln Guitar Center. On a lighter note, most retailers would have kicked me to the curb because I have returned or exchanged several of these instruments during that same period. Amazingly, the General Manager, Jamie Cox, and his staff have bent over backwards to assure that I got what was best for me. Never a negative word or challenge to my requests. If this sounds too good to be true that's because it is. In this day and age of digital shopping, it is rare to find retail operations as well run as Lincoln Guitar Center.
Over time, staff members have extended invitations for me to see them play live when they perform at various venues in Lincoln. One such person is Kevin, an extremely patient gentleman, who introduced me to Taylor guitars and spent quite a bit of time familiarizing me with the technical aspects of various high-profile brands. The fascinating thing about Kevin is that he is a highly skilled bass player who has spent many years touring with a well-known group. When I heard him in a live venue his talent was immense but what was equally impressive is his humility.
A young man named Jacob afforded me a similar experience. Jacob is always friendly and eager to help me make selections from the vast Guitar Center inventory. He specializes in guitar and told me his band was competing in a local "Battle of the Bands" in Lincoln. I attended the event and was overwhelmed by his level of skill. Once again, very humble and as polite as they come. Hard to find these days! Jacob has literally spent hours showing me vintage as well as new instruments. As such, I have acquired some guitars that would never have been on my radar screen but exceed any expectations of musical enjoyment I could imagine.
Lastly, and this is where the proverbial rubber meets the road, the Lincoln Guitar Center is so superlative because it is managed by an exceptional person who understands business fundamentals and also possesses uncanny people skills. Jamie Cox has meticulously put together a well-rounded, highly trained, and eager to please staff that makes customer encounters at the Lincoln Guitar Center a uniquely fulfilling retail experience. His sales associates do not hover over you or try to "hard-sell" their vast inventory line of products. A customer can go in and make a quick purchase or browse for hours and do hands-on product trials. Mr. Cox leads by example and you can feel is leadership and direction resonate throughout the entire Guitar Center team.
This review may seem long winded, but it could be simply summarized...
If you like music at any level or of any genre move the Lincoln Guitar Center to the very top of your "Must Do List". read more
