Gradually teaching a child to be a self-sufficient person is one of a parent’s most important tasks. Some ways to start:

Teach brainstorming: When there is a problem, have him come up with solutions. Then help him choose one.
Encourage kids to take responsibility: Let them know they have to do their homework. Show them how to organize their schedule so they can plan for music lessons, field trips, and tests. Use a calendar on the wall or a Palm Pilot.

Teach bargaining skills. Show how to resolve heated arguments. Teach them to walk away until they are calm. Show how to negotiate. Flip a coin to see who goes first; set a timer for three minutes in which to argue; make sure each one listens to the other. Create a penalty for not solving the argument, such as not watching TV today.

Show how to weigh decisions: Michele Borba, author of Don’t Give Me That Attitude (Jossey-Bass) says that when a child wants you to make a decision, show her how to weigh the pros and cons, then decide for herself.

Teach kids to make choices based on reason instead of fearing friends’ disapproval.

Show how to deal with failure. Acknowledge hurt feelings and show that failure isn’t fatal. Teach him phrases such as “nobody’s perfect,” “everybody makes mistakes,” and “you win some, lose some.” Have him practice so he can easily say them to his pals.

Great customer service can give us an edge

In a worldwide marketplace, there may be times when it’s difficult to compete in the area of labor costs and, in some cases, even material costs.

At these times, our customer service can put us ahead of the game in competing with companies both at home and abroad. It should be a top consideration for every team member.

That means not only listening to customers and providing good service, but identifying unmet needs that can result in new revenue opportunities.

A successful customer experience often requires collaboration with others in the organization and communication with our own suppliers.

Customers must feel important and appreciated. They are very sensitive to whether we care about them. Be sincere and thank them every time you get a chance to do it.

Look for ways to say “yes.” Comply with any reasonable request and make sure that everything you promise is done. Follow up.

Don’t be afraid to apologize for something that has gone wrong. Customers must always feel that they win in one way or another.