By: Suzanne Ostrander
I have posted various blog entries in the past highlighting the focus of customer service as the pinnacle to marketing success within small and large corporations. However, I’d like to be bold enough to perceive the issue through a larger, often unspoken lens: Christianity.
The separation of church and state has taken public schools and companies to a place of such neutrality that we have become not only unbiased, but often desensitized to the relevance of Christ in all avenues of our lives, including school, work, and our children’s extra curricular activities.
Most publicly owned companies have slowly morphed into a perspective of viewing Christ as “the elephant in the room”, when even though He is felt in our hearts and daily actions, He is neatly tucked away for fear of offending others.
Let’s take a look at another company who does the opposite.
Since opening its doors to customers, Chick-fil-A has established its principles on the practice of Christianity. Some marketing professionals might view Chick-fil-A’s decision to close on Sundays as “foolish” by losing a full workdays’ worth of business.
However, compared to the 50% annual turnover rate of the average American corporation, Chick-fil-A maintains an astounding 3% yearly turnover rate.
Dan Cathy, President and COO of Chick-fil-A, has maintained that it was an easy decision to stay closed on Sundays:
“Jesus Christ did not die for a company, He died for individuals, personally.” Thus, by centering its establishment on Biblical principles and acknowledging the Lord in all ways, Chick-fil-A has found success.
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” – Matthew 6:33 NI
I believe that Chick-fil-A has it right. They are doing exactly what we are taught in the book of Matthew. Seek ye FIRST (not second, third, or somewhere in between 5th and 10th, but First) the Kingdom of God.
What are your thoughts on Christ in the business world, and all other avenues of life? Have you experienced different results when adhering to Matthew 6:33 in your career? I would love to hear from you. God bless!
Bryan E. Wilson 