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Courtesy Is Contagious: The Diminishing Element of Service in a Fast-Paced, Digital World

Today's world is fast-moving and so much of our communication has moved behind screens, from emails and text messages to virtual meetings and social media interactions. While technology has improved efficiency and speed, it has also chipped away at one critical element of service culture: COURTESY. Now more than ever, we need to remember that courtesy isn't just a simple gesture but the foundation of meaningful interactions and long-lasting professional relationships.

One powerful example of the timeless value of courtesy comes from the history of the Dinkler Hotels, a family legacy of my dear friend, Carling Dinkler III. In the early 20th Century, his great-grandfather, Louis Jacob Dinkler, built more than 22 hotels across the southeastern United States, each one reflecting a single guiding principle: “Courtesy Is Contagious.” Engraved on every employee’s name tag, this phrase wasn't just a tagline but a mission statement that set Dinkler Hotels apart...

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AI Will Never Replace Noelle

No Machine Can Match the Heart of a Nurse: Why AI Won't Replace Noelle at MD Anderson

MD Anderson. The name strikes fear and hope in the hearts of many. It's a place where cutting-edge treatments battle relentless illnesses. But within these walls lies a human touch irreplaceable by even the most sophisticated AI – nurses like Noelle.

My wife has been a patient at MD Anderson for five years and each visit has put us in touch will an unmatched level of empathy, understanding, kindness, and compassion. Our recent, early-morning visit amplified our already stellar perception of genuine care provided by the doctors and staff at this world-class institution when we met Noelle, one of the many nurses who make these visits so memorable and encouraging. She effortlessly made us comfortable from the time she greeted us with an effervescent spirit until she left the room while anchoring us with encouraging words of confidence and comfort.

Noelle isn't just a dispenser of medication and...

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Culture Contagion: How Service Values Infect Your Value Proposition

It's a common refrain: "Our employees are our greatest asset." But are we leveraging that asset to its full potential? Especially when it comes to delivering on the promises we make to customers, our value proposition? The answer lies in fostering a service culture, a contagious spirit that infects employees with a passion for exceeding expectations. 

So, what exactly is a service culture? It's more than just saying "please" and "thank you." It's an ingrained belief in putting the customer at the heart of everything we do. It's woven into the fabric of the company, shaping every interaction, decision, and behavior. 

But how does this internal culture translate into external results? How does it impact the delivery of our value proposition? Here's how: 

1. Employee Engagement: A strong service culture breeds engaged employees. They're not just clocking in and out; they're emotionally...

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