Customer service in need of overhaul

What ever happened to the “customer” in “customer service?” I'd have to say that about nine of 10 times that I stop at a gas station and go in to purchase something, the “customer service associate” (I use the term loosely) is chatting with another associate or a friend lingering by the counter.

It's about something totally unrelated to me, my transaction or even their job. Rarely do they make eye contact, or say hello, and often I feel as if I am an inconvenience.

Well, dear associate, I apologize for interrupting your riveting conversation about how crappy your manager is or how totally wasted you got last weekend. I'll just wait patiently by the counter and you let me know when you're ready to give me your undivided attention.

Shirley Girard

Cedar Rapids