My car (having taken it to Denver a few times with two dogs this Winter) desperately needs an interior clean. And, if I can get a good exterior wash, more the better. Not having done this on a regular basis before, I did some rather serious on line research or "pre shopping". Your "seasonal" sounded like just the thing I needed while not breaking my wallet. I called to inquire about the details and if an appointment was needed. I was told, "well, now is not a good time". Really. I was told that everyone needed a clean car right now, apparently, and it must have something to do with the recent rainy weather and I could try to come in but it was first come, first serve and I would be there for quite a while if I tried. but.. maybe try to come in first thing, super early. Wow. Okay then. if that's not discouraging, I am not certain what is. still wanting to use your services, I gave it a couple weeks. With "come in first thing" ringing in my ears.... After work on Friday, I cleaned out my car to ensure that everything would be quick and easy for those working on my car. On Saturday, after working my full 40 hour week, I woke up at 6:30am (on a Saturday!) to ensure that I would be there - right at open. I pulled in, I parked. The door was still locked (I was early by one minute, I grant you). I waited. A gentleman came out and asked if he could assist (well done). After explaining what I needed and what I was told, he told me that I could not be serviced at that time. "most of the guys don't even get in until nine" and they could try to help...... but it would be awhile. Oh dear. I left. I will not be back. Having worked in the service industry for nearly 30 years, I am going to use this opportunity to share some of my hard earned tips with you. I hope that you take them for what they are, golden nuggets of opportunity to improve, and heed my advice. Tip #1 (for a reason) NEVER - not ever - NEVER forget that your customers are your life blood. Effectively, every single one signs your paycheck. Though now, there may seem to be an over abundance, trust me, there will be lean periods.... And, it will be your customers that keeps those lights on. You discourage them, you lose a great deal more than your paycheck. Tip # 2 just as important as it is to keep your customers... its important to bring in new ones. All hail "net flows". REPUTATION COUNTS. and, for every person with a great experience that tells 3 people, the rule of thumb is, there will be someone with a lackluster experience that tells TWELVE. say goodbye to your paycheck. I would like to suggest that you don't make it difficult for a new customer to obtain your services. they should not be more concerned with fitting into your schedule..... than you are to theirs. make it nice and easy. signing your paycheck should not have to be difficult. lastly, if you DO have to turn away money, for WHATEVER reason (ouch that hurts), offer an incentive to come back. in the service industry, that is not begging. that is another days paycheck. "im sorry, ma'am we cant fit you in right now" (NEVER tell a customer its a staffing problem.... that aint their problem). "however, if you come back at 11, I promise you that I will get you in right away". "If that is not acceptable, can I offer you a 10% off coupon for a car wash tomorrow?" "at least get the exterior done?" NOTE, lesson ended. if handled this way, I would not be posting a negative review right now. for the world. this is another waste of my time. If handled with the motto of, "customers are our lifeblood", I would be getting my car washed right now. at your establishment. even just the exterior. and, I might even come back for that "seasonal" i tried so hard to get. and, that's just another part of your paycheck. thank you for your attention. read more