Vicenza command highlights emphasis on customer service

By Joyce Costello, IMCOMMarch 8, 2013

VICENZA, Italy- With budget cuts and possibly furloughs around the corner, one thing that will not be reduced in the Vicenza Military Community is a positive emphasis on customer service.

Garrison-wide Town Hall meetings Feb. 26 and 27 started with U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza Commander, Col. David Buckingham, passing out "Buckingham Bucks" to key garrison employees in recognition of the outstanding customer service feedback from ICE comment cards.

"We are in the business of service and I believe my rank is a mark of how much service I owe my country, Soldiers and families," said Buckingham as he introduced the USAG Vicenza Customer Service Standards. "For most of us within the garrison, offices are already providing great customer service, but we are looking to take customer service from an A to an A-plus," he said.

The customer service standards begin with a great greeting, by which customers are greeted promptly, personally and cheerfully, followed by an awesome attitude, meaning customers are treated with courtesy and enthusiasm.

"Customers can expect to be served by a professional staff in a welcoming environment with the end goal of them being a satisfied customer and departing happy and with their needs met," explained Buckingham.

For service providers such as Bill Murphy, lead plans specialist, Plans, Analysis and Integration Office, this emphasis on interpersonal relations can make a difference in the overall community.

"I'm proud to provide great customer service in a timely and accurate manner that our customers can use and depend on," said Murphy. "As a professional these standards help us understand the level of service we need to provide, and from a customer prospective we know what level of service we can expect."

Buckingham added that the garrison is also working on community standards so no one will be emotionally, physically or mentally abusive to others; parents will be held responsible for the behavior of their children; and facility managers will be able to dictate behavior within a facility.

Related Links:

Vicenza Military Community facebook page

Vicenza Military Community website