Mistaken Delivery: A Lesson in Customer Service and Organization

[cincychef]

I usually don't deliver shows at all. I have 4 kids 6 and under so even for individual orders I charge them direct shipping because it is so hard to get out the door and make deliveries. I had a lady call me at the end of January to order a stone. She got my number off of my car sign (that was a first!) I ended up putting it on a show that was getting shipped here because I thought I could deliver it to her and show extra customer service. She lives close by. Anyway, I ended up with 2 shows getting delivered here all on the same day, over 12 boxes of stuff. Then with all the snow I have been snowed in for the good part of two weeks.
Anyway, today I am leaving for a party and my phone rang, I didn't pick up becuase I was running late, I go out to my car and someone is blocking the driveway. It is this lady and she is asking me about her stone. I forgot about it!! I told her I would call her when I got home and could check on it. ( I honestly thought I had it shipped to her)

Long story short I delivered it to the host of another party

I feel really bad, I think she thought I stole her money. It makes it worse that she doesn't know me at all. I am going to take the stone to her on Monday and maybe give her a Season's Best. I just can't believe I didn't realize I did this. This is why I don't deliver!

 

[raebates]

We all make mistakes. A heart-felt apology and the gift of the Season's Best should be sufficient to smooth things over.

 

[Chefgirl2]

Be honest about it all and kill her with kindness. I feel like the saying "No good deed goes unpunished." is so true. Everytime I try to save someone money I end up doing something similar.

But, more often than not, I feel great knowing that I helped someone save time and money.

 

[PamperedchefDaly]

I agree with Rae--heartfelt apology and a SB. You can even use the 4 kids under 6 as an excuse for "mommy mind". She may be able to relate to that.

 

[cincychef]

Thanks guys! That made me feel a little better. I still feel bad, but there is nothing I can do but tell her what happened and that I am sorry.

 

[Sheila]

The host who received it by mistake didn't bring it up? Did she use it???

I agree, being honest is the best route. Hopefully, she will understand.

 

[pcchefjane]

I accidentally ordered only one Mini-Serving Spatula on my last December order instead of two for a lady. My next order didn't go in till January. I apologized profusely to the Host. I tried calling the lady and the Host until I finally reached the Host LAST WEEK! Since the customer OWNS a Realty Company here in town, I went out of my way and gave her an extra Spatula plus the SB. The Host told me when I delivered it she wants another Show in March and wants to have it there at their office! Looks like that little "investment" paid off! They were very understanding...