“Hello,” a smile, and “thank you” would make my shopping (banking, dining) experience very rewarding. I know I’ll find myself recommending you to others because good, friendly service gets etched into my brain (which, by the way, is hotwired to the hand that holds my wallet) and I do tend to want to share good news.

Positive experiences get my loyalty juices flowing and I’ll find myself returning because you’re polite and you try hard on my behalf. I know I’ll return if you seem to understand that I want your full, focused attention.

It is when you are surly, abrupt, and I feel unwelcome, that I find myself looking elsewhere for the services and products you provide. Little things like ignoring me, avoiding eye contact, talking to co-workers, answering a phone while you are tending to me, are powerful enough to drive me away – forever.

Oh, I know I am not perfect! I can be rude, demanding, even unkind – but I am the customer. I’m lured before you by very expensive advertising campaigns, but friendliness, honesty, efficiency and a friendly “hello” are all it might take to turn me into a very loyal customer. Try it. I know we’ll both like it.