True Class

Believe it or not, this blog isn't always about a lack of klass. There are people who I've come across in my business dealings that show true class. I have the distinct pleasure of working with an agency run by two dynamic women. (Ironically, they used to work at the corporation where I now work.) Although I'm not sure of the stories behind their departure from the company where I am employed, they joined together and opened their own successful business and provide services to the company for which I am employed.

Both of these ladies are class acts. I can't begin to list all of their qualities but I will try to point out a few that I admire.

• They listen. I mean they truly listen and are interested in what they are hearing.
• They are interested in people as people, not just as employees or clients who are a means to a buck. One day before we got to work, we discussed family. It was so refreshing to have someone care about me as a multi-dimensional person.
• They care about their employees and the work environment. Culture plays a large role in their office. It just so happened that I had a meeting scheduled at their office and when I arrived, they were celebrating two office birthdays with cupcakes and song. It's these little things that make people feel great about working there.
• They are giving of themselves and of their talents. Both ladies volunteer to speak at women's events and even teach classes to prospective women entrepreneurs.

I could go on and on, but I'll finish with an example that touched me and has stayed with me. On a Friday, as work was wrapping up, they had their weekly beverage with their employees. And even though one of the owners had a loss of a loved one during the week, she had a glass with the group and told them all, individually, how great they had done that week. She was visibly appreciative of their work. It may sound like a small thing, but think about how often an employee in a large company is made to feel as if they are appreciated. In the company for which I am employed, it's not very often, if at all. Appreciation is a small gesture that goes a long way in making employees loyal. It also shows that a business owner has a lot of Klass!

What's your experience? Have you worked with Klassy supervisors or agencies? Please share!