Experience The Difference

Today I visited Superior Pool Supplies in Chino to pick up some Silca sand for my sand filter. This was my first time at the store.  I was having a very casual morning, not a lot planned for the day. After a quick glance at some of the pool equipment I grabbed my spot in the checkout line. The cashier immediately looked up at me and as he simultaneously continued to ring up the customer in front of him said, "Good morning, I'm sorry for the wait, I'll be with you in just a moment." I was a startled. I hadn't even been waiting for a moment and didn't think I gave the impression I was in any rush. As I waited I glanced up at a large banner strung out over the cashier that said, "Experience The Difference." I didn't give the sign much more thought at the time. In a matter of moments I was to the front of the line. Eric, said "Welcome to Superior, please help yourself to a free drink," as he pointed to the fountain drink machine on a nearby counter. I explained my need for Silca sand and he processed the order. After finishing up he again offered the free drinks and let me know he'd bring the sand out to my car. "Out to my car and a free drink?", I thought. Wow that's quite generous. Eric was treating me like I was CEO of a large company. At Home Depot I need to haul it out to my truck on my own with no drink offer. Since he offered a second time, I figured I might as well take him up on his offer for a free drink. Filling up my drink I noticed a picture of a guy holding the "Experience The Difference" banner at the top of a mountain. I couldn't help to think back to the way Eric made me feel like I was a CEO. Eric hustled to the back room to grab the bag and met me at my truck just as I arrived with my soda. As Eric rolled up, I pulled down my tailgate for him to lift the bag in. When he was done I gathered the nerve to ask him for some more details about the banner and Experience The Difference Brand. Eric shrugged and explained it was part of the company culture to make each interaction with guest the best experience possible. I also discovered he is an accomplished underground musician. He composes his own music and publishes on sound cloud. Check out his stuff here: https://m.soundcloud.com/phantomdog/temptationEbec Sound Cloud

The visit to Superior Pool Supply inspired me to reflect on how our department can create an amazing  experience for the staff, parents and community we serve.