Disappointing First Experience Turned Around by an Exceptional Employee…read more
My children and I visited Meijer on September 2 around 2:25 p.m. to purchase five GloFish. This was actually my very first time shopping at Meijer, and unfortunately, my first interaction with an employee was extremely disappointing.
My daughter went to find someone to assist us in the fish department. About five minutes later, Dale K. arrived at the tanks. As he approached, he mumbled, "It's time for me to get off." I responded, "You can get someone else so you can go," because I completely understood that his shift may have been ending.
Instead, Dale rolled his eyes and responded, "My manager told me to come here, so what fish do you want?"
I explained that we wanted five GloFish in different colors: pink, orange, purple, yellow, and blue. Dale climbed the ladder and appeared visibly frustrated while trying to catch the fish. After missing one several times with the net, he sighed and said, "This is why I don't work in this department."
When he finally handed us the bag, there were only four fish instead of the five I requested. At that point, the interaction had become uncomfortable enough that I chose not to ask him to correct it. I simply thanked him, wished him a good day, and walked away.
I understand being tired at the end of a shift. I also understand that it was a very hot day. However, customers should not be made to feel like an inconvenience for simply asking for assistance. I even gave Dale the opportunity to find another employee if he did not want to assist us. I would have much rather waited for someone else than have my children and me treated as though helping us was a burden.
I was prepared to leave a one-star review based on that experience, until we met Shanti H. at checkout.
Shanti was the complete opposite. She was warm, friendly, professional, and courteous from the moment we approached her register. When I mentioned that this was my first time shopping at Meijer, she genuinely welcomed me. She complimented my hair and my children's hair, gave my son a roll of stickers, and took the time to thoroughly explain how to sign up for the rewards program.
She had no idea what had happened just moments earlier, yet her kindness completely changed the tone of our visit.
Shanti H., thank you for saving the day without even knowing that you did. Your kindness and professionalism are exactly what customer service should look like, and I sincerely hope Meijer recognizes you for it.
As for Dale K., I hope management addresses this interaction. Everyone has frustrating days, but customers, especially those visiting a store for the very first time--should never be made to feel unwelcome or like a burden for requesting service.
Thank you, Shanti, for making sure my family's first visit to Meijer did not end on a negative note. Kudos to you!
