A Special Anniversary Calls for Thanksgiving & A Special Offer

This year I’m celebrating my company’s 20th anniversary. It was 20 years ago this month that I officially registered Quality Service Marketing as a business and, thanks to my many clients and colleagues, it’s been an incredible experience.

Perhaps this longevity is the reason I’m not panicking over the current economy, even though my business has been affected this year. I’ve made it through difficult economic times before.

Reflecting over the past 20 years, what has changed the most? Two things stand out:

  1. Technology and its impact on the workplace – in extending my communications reach (e.g., blogging) … in providing faster, more expedient ways to communicate with clients and colleagues … and in providing instant access to an overwhelming amount of information. I can remember working off a large, non-portable desktop computer with a bulky monitor and dot matrix printer. Technology has made a major impact on how we all work these days, not to mention how much!
  2. I’ve also changed – I’m older, wiser (not to mention a little wider), and more confident in my abilities and value as a trusted business advisor. In addition, I’m delighted to have added “published author” to my credentials.*

What hasn’t changed since I’ve been in business?

  1. The need to take care of employees and customers. Given a global economy with more competition and more choice, it’s harder than ever to attract and retain customers and effectively engage employees in the process. A “high tech-high touch”approach is still relevant.
  2. My respect for and relationships with my clients, past and present. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship where we learn from each other. I feel privileged to have worked with so many wonderful people, many of whom I’m still in touch with regardless of whether we worked together for many years or on a once-and-done project basis.

What I’m thankful for

In honor of my business milestone and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for many things:

  • My clients – for the opportunity to serve them + grow both professionally and personally in the process.
  • My colleagues – for their peer mentoring, advice, and sharing of ideas.
  • My blog readers and fellow blogging buddies – for their continued interest in internal marketing & communications and inspiring new posts.
  • And my family – for their continued love and support.

Best wishes for a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday!

*In honor of this 20th anniversary, and in time for the holiday season, I’m happy to offer a special 20% discount off the purchase of my book, Taking Care of the People Who Matter Most: A Guide to Employee-Customer Care, from now through Dec. 31, 2008, when you order online from WME Books. Be sure to enter special discount code QSM109 in the coupon code box.

6 Comments

  • Sally Lee December 2, 2008 Reply

    Sybil, a big congratulations to you for your accomplishments and a VERY BIG THANK YOU for giving so much back to your profession. You have and continue to inspire young marketers such as myself. Happy Holidays! ~ Sally

  • Joanne Dickinson December 1, 2008 Reply

    My heart-felt thanks for all of your long-term sound advice and guidance. Your experience, knowledge, and genuine caring are what have made Quality Service Marketing a success for 20 years and a survivor during these economic hard times.

  • Mike McD November 26, 2008 Reply

    Congrats Sybil! Twenty-years, geez, and I’m
    still working on my business plan for the Kept Man Klub . . . Passing this milestone is much deserved and I hope for you to have as many more as you want (key word there).
    All the best to you and Mike
    Mike McD

  • Michael Stershic November 26, 2008 Reply

    Congratulations on 20 years in business! It wouldn’t be another year without me saying SMTM!
    Michael

  • Toby November 26, 2008 Reply

    Sybil – congrats! on your 20th anniversary. It is no small accomplishment and I toast your success. Echoing @Becky, the insights and information you share on Quality Service Marketing is much appreciated.

  • Becky Carroll November 24, 2008 Reply

    Thank you so much, Sybil, for you and your blog! It is great quality and on a subject, employee focus and retention, that is critical these days.
    You rock!

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