As we arrive at the airport’s drop site for oversize luggage, I see a build-up of probably 30 fifty-pound ski bags waiting to be processed with 2 tired ladies whom I suspect would like nothing more than an afternoon off. Immediately I think that my skis might not make it to the plane; so I do what I do, I bring the best out of people.
Hello! (smile, eye contact). It seems to me that you’ve had a better day at work… (sympathetic look). I guess you won’t be hitting the gym tonight after work! Would you like me to stay here and help carry a few of these? (double smile) I only need to board my plane at 16h00. I know she knows that I don’t have time to stay and help but offering anyway is just showing I get how difficult their job is today.
– No, but thank you. If I could, I’d take you on that offer. Bring your bag here, and I’ll take care of you.
She opens the bag, has a look, declares it OK.
All right, you are good to go. Just put your bag here and be on your way.
As we go, my son asks: Dad, why was our bag processed immediately and not that of the other people?
– Good question, my answer is simple: I talk to people, I recognize them, I appreciate what they do, and I am nice to them, so that brings the best in others, it makes them care for you because you become a person to them and not just another fifty-pound bag to process.
Martin Pham Dinh 