Are you a good customer or are you the type that gives service representatives sleepless nights? Businesses invest millions annually into customer service training hoping to lure new business and keep the ones they already have and that is wise investment. However, our society has become so demanding and so rude that it’s time we remind you, the customer, how to be a better customer. {{more}}Although the customer is always right, a little common sense and courtesy can make the busy holiday season a bit more bearable for everyone.

Pack a healthy dose of patience before you go shopping. Everyone wants what you want and they want it now so just wait your turn.

Do not invite your friends to cut the line when you are way up front and they do not want to wait in the back. It’s unfair to those who have been waiting.

Do not take out your frustration on store clerks when the real reason you are upset is due to problems at home or work. Your misdirected anger can spoil a good shopping day for many people.

As much as possible leave the screaming, bad behaved kids at home. Children should not be subjected to the chaos that accompanies holiday shopping; it puts everyone on edge especially when they do not know how to behave in public or are overly tired and hungry.

Have your money ready when you approach the cash register. You are in line to pay; looking for your money after the attendant has calculated your purchase is simply inconsiderate and a big time waster. Estimate your cost and have your payment ready.

Know what you want when you enter a store; it keeps the lines moving and avoids unnecessary spending. Nothing is more annoying than an undecided shopper in a crowded store with limited customer service help.

Be courteous to your fellow shoppers. Please, thank you and excuse me are still the order of the day.

If you are unhappy with the service, try to handle it discreetly instead of creating a major scene.

Happy Shopping!

n Karen Hinds is an international author, speaker

and consultant and president of Karen Hinds

Seminars. Send comments and suggestions to Karen@KarenHindsSeminars.com