DIMAPUR, SEPT 11 (MExN): Extending firm and ‘correct’ handshakes, Oliver M Das began his business of propagating the concept of ‘customer service excellence’ at Dimapur today as eager entrepreneurs and other professionals gathered at the conference hall of ‘Highway 39’ to listen to him in rapt attention. ‘California’s Businessman of the Year 2003’ had a clear message not only to businessmen, but also for persons belonging to various institutions, who in their day-to-day affairs, interact with customers who are now more sophisticated, and who insist on value for money. Oliver’s recipe for success embraces the concept of going beyond, exceeding expectations and walking the extra mile. “Do not keep only local customers in mind. India is a growing business giant,” he egged on participants. Originally from Gujarat in India, Oliver moved on with life to England and later settled down in the US State presently run by Governor Arnold Schwarzenneger. He’s also a point man in helping businesses in America do business with the government.
Pearly, his wife of Ugandan origin whose family migrated to England during Idi Amin’s rule, distributed business cards before the commencement of the seminar to prove her husband’s words right. Networking in the form of exchanging business cards, holding interactive sessions or just getting together plays a pivotal role in expanding a business base, Oliver said during the colloquium.
For those with get-rich-quick notions, he advised, “People will be paying you in recognition of your service.” His mantra for bettering customer services in Nagaland? Once employed, members of staff should be imparted customer service training. Such training should be institutionalized in all organizations, he told The Morung Express. During his recent stay in Nagaland, he’s delivered sermons in four churches. For him, ethical codes in business should be a culture.
Oliver wants to be recognized as a pioneer in customer service excellence in India. After delivering presentations in several locations across the country, his assessment places India in the ‘rigid’ zone which, unfortunately, implies that customer service is poor. In his words, “In India, I find the handshake too limp.” America celebrates National Handshake Day on August 18.
On invitation of the Clark Theological College, Nagaland, Oliver and Pearly have been engaged with making presentations at Mokokchung and Kohima. Having completed their last leg at Dimapur, they leave Nagaland on September 12. In his appearances, Oliver also offered opportunities while speaking on ‘lucrative employment opportunities for nurses in US hospitals.’ To avail an opening, nurses have to pass American qualifications following which they can even bring their families to the land of opportunity, with Oliver taking care of emigration facilities.
However, Nagas were not quick enough to dance on the chance. Dr. Taka of Clark Theological College and Lima Jamir, Chairman of the Nagaland Development Outreach agree that “our people are not courageous enough.” But as Oliver prepares to leave, optimism on the belief that participants to the seminar will disseminate his words rings clear in the air.
.jpg)
