Are you one of those who suffer from the shiny new object syndrome? Do we hope the new, latest and greatest phone app or DIY jig will solve our problems?
Are we seeking to deliver value to people, or are we just feeding a machine? It’s unproductive to use new tools that don’t fit your business model. Invest in the ones that do, but stay knowledgeable about HOW and WHY they do.

When machines break or you have no cell phone signal, it’s those moments when the customer relationship depends on you. Relationships build the foundation with customers and vendors. Not Social Media. Not machine automation. Humanity becomes the killer app. We can press buttons and get through a day without thinking. (Google maps for me! I do look for the sun but on cloudy days, I’m lost.) Technology offers accuracy and consistency. Still, the human touch, even with our quirky variations, offers another layer of quality control if we inspect each job, do each task, with care.

There is no app for a firm hand shake, a personal thank you or the sound of a friendly voice. Emails can be impersonal. Texts misunderstood. Go ahead. Make eye contact. Pick up the phone and deliver service with your friendly voice. The “personal touch” in relationships doesn’t have to be an uphill battle. The shiny new object this month just might be you!