I finally got inspired by the desire to read again, so Panda and I went to the Santa Monica Library on Saturday and I got two books. Currently I am reading about the Ritz-Carlton and how they continue to be a world-class institution, which has reminded me of my interest in what makes good service.

I often notice areas of improvement with every company I deal with, whether it’s Apple or a local restaurant. The only exemplary service I can remember receiving more recently is from my Chase Sapphire Visa Signature card. I’m not sure if it was because it was a Sapphire or a Visa Sig, but I didn’t have to wade through touch-tone menus to speak to a person and my issue was resolved quickly, without hesitation.

Compare that with most experiences, with a lot of navigating that ultimately ends with being on hold for a long time. Good service can go a long way to build customer loyalty and a positive brand name. If only more companies invested in the anticipation and satisfaction of their customers’ needs so that we’d all be happier in dealing with them.

I really look forward to someday experiencing the “Ritz-Carlton Mystique,” as they call it, and getting a glimpse into what going above and beyond AND above and beyond even more is like. And I hope I can build a business that has a culture as rich and rewarding as theirs appears to be.