Building a Better Jay

If there is one thing I have learned from my stay in Germany until now, it is patience.  You have to wait for things here.  It took 6 weeks to get my telephone and internet connection.  It took 2 weeks to get someone to translate my driver’s license (which had less than 100 words).  When you call someone to complain, expect that they will only tell you the situation (ie you have to wait until xx date or perhaps you have to wait and we don’t know when we will get to you).  When you stand somewhere to request something (butcher, bakery), you will wait until they get around to waiting on you.  They will help you when they have the chance.  Customer service over here is NOTHING like the US.  When I write an e-mail to bb.com, they respond in about 20 minutes.  When I ask them a question, I get an answer.  In Germany, there is no sense of urgency.  Certainly, they want to please the customer, but they will do things one time and do them correctly.  Every person who has their telephone and internet connected will have it done by a professional!  No, you can not connect your phone to the wall yourself!  They will turn on your service only after knowing that someone trained has verified everything is acceptable.  …and that will take time.  You will get your steaks, but only after the butcher has thoroughly cleaned his utensils, washed his hands, reviewed his stock carefully, and ensured that everything in his store is perfectly ready for you.

Unfortunately, I am from the US where we do things fast.  In the US, 90% of the people get 90% of the quality you get in Germany (there are company’s who are exceptions, like bb.com).  There is nothing wrong with that unless you are in the 10% who don’t.  I’ve been in that 10% and understand that is the price you pay for immediate service.  However, I am still of the mind that immediate service is preferable.  …that’s why it can be frustrating to live here in Germany!!!  One year left!!