Customer service

Back in the UK, American companies were often highlighted as a leader in customer service. So what is the truth? Well, since arriving in the USA in July, we have had mixed experiences.

Mostly folks in stores are good, welcoming and helpful. Financial service companies are variable. Our attempts to get a mortgage were a real struggle, with most companies we dealt with being useless. Some lied, some did nothing, and I couldn't help feeling that they operated without a brain - no personal experience of how to deal with someone with only non-US credit history, so they had to bluster instead of working out how to secure our business. Our bank, though, have been fantastic. They are a relatively small, local company. The staff are invariably friendly and helpful.

Finally, a comment on my favorite espresso stand. The girls there are always friendly and hard working. Some may say that it is put on, so doesn't count. The English have a word for the worth of this negative view, and it rhymes with rollocks. Some people are only happy when they complain. A happy face is always good to see, and only encourages further happiness.

So I conclude that certain US companies do indeed provide top class customer service - but small is superb, big is rollocks.

Michael Jackson

OK, speaking as an white Englishman, the only thing ordinary about Michael Jackson is his name. There are so many names around here that are unusual to me, such as Bridger, Kaelyn, Rooster, the list is endless. Somehow Michael ends up with what I have been brought up to consider a traditional name.

Anyway, I heard on the news today about how he waved at fans as he turned up at court. One such adoring female apparently moved to the trial town to be able to support him during this trying time. Good grief, get a life! Sadly, though, I cannot say that this over-the-top celebrity worship is a peculiarly American trait. The mass hysteria surrounding Diana Spencer's funeral was truly disturbing to behold.

Why do so many people need to idolise the famous? This fame thing is getting out of hand, you don't need talent, just a big mouth, or big breasts, or small brain. What great roll-models.

Up and running

But nothing yet to say - I'll return after a bit of work!