In many of my self storage blogs I resort to stories to illustrate or strengthen a point. This, I presume, is something that my regular readers have come to expect.  Here, then, is yet another story.

Recently, I received a phone call from a rather distraught man indeed, distraught is an understatement. This man whom we will call, Bill had received a series of automated phone calls from his storage facility. Of course, I did not know the nature of these messages or the reasons for their delivery. Initially, I told Bill that his best course of action would be to leave a voice message with the property manager, who would be able to call him back and explain the situation promptly. Bill was not having any of that. He began to scream and shout.  Im in another state he exploded. What if all of my belongings have been lost or stolen or damaged or something. Though I am quick to become irritable when someone screams at me over the phone, Bills tone betrayed a sense of urgency of panic, even. I could tell that he was genuinely scared that all he wanted was some peace of mind.

With an understanding of Bills worries, I was quickly able to regain control of the situation. Bill, I understand that you are worried, I said, But right now there isnt a way for me to reach Joyce, your property manager. The store is still open, so Im sure that she is just on the other phone line or out on the property. Tell you what leave a voice message for now, and while you do that I will call the facility main line myself. Let me get your phone number so I can have Joyce call you when I get in touch with her.

Believe it or not, Bill calmed down. He gave me his telephone number and his unit number, and with only a little bit of prodding, he left what I hope was a calm voice message with the facility. When it comes to self storage, sales representatives always need to keep a level head and quickly assess the demeanors of their callers. An irate caller can quickly be turned into a happy caller a calm caller, at the very least.

Self Storage Comparison  :  http://www.selfstoragecomparison.net