“Let’s go for a walk.”

“Where are we going?”

“Nowhere in particular. I just want to spend some time with you.”

“I’m kind of busy right now. Can we do it another day?”

“I would really like to go now, if you don’t mind.”

“Is everything okay?”

“Everything is fine. I just want to spend some time with you talking, listening and wondering.”

“Talking and wondering about what?”

“Just things, like -- Why is the sky blue? Are you happy? How can I be a better person? How can I help you? What are you dreams? Are you afraid of anything?”

“Are you serious!?”

“Please, let’s go. It should only take a short time, and it would mean a great deal to me. I don’t get to spend much one-on-one time with you anymore.”

“Okay. Let me get a jacket.”

An hour later

“Thanks, that was fun.”

A couple weeks and a few walks later

“Would you like to go for a walk?”

“You are asking me this time!?”

“Yes. Well, how about it?”

“Of course, let’s go.”

A month later, and after several more walks and long conversations

“When you first asked me to go on for a walk last month, I really didn’t know what to make of it. But now I realize so much more – about you and about me. I really love our walks, Dad. And, I really love you.”

“I really love you too, Elizabeth."

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There are few communication challenges more complex then talking with and spending time with a teenage daughter or son. In a similar fashion, the means, the words, and timing of our customer communications are becoming increasingly complex. However, despite these challenges, we must continually “walk with” our customers to discover how we can make their lives and their vacations more fulfilling and memorable. With our customers, we must be open to change and provide direction that is valued added and timely. 

Also, we must “walk with” our fellow associates to better understand their talents, their strengths, and their passions. We need to listen to their ideas, address their questions, and respect their doubts. We need to understand their “story” and how it is unfolding within the workplace.

Please consider this your invitation to “walk with” your customers and associates today. Ask questions. Listen carefully. You will be amazed at what you learn, and how bright our futures can be if only we spend some time … walking together.

Until Next Friday,

Photo by Free To Use Sounds on Unsplash