January 1953 page 1

THIS GRUMBLING BUSINESS

A wise man once pointed out that there is nothing easier
than finding fault . . . it takes no brains whatsoever to set
yourself up in the grumbling business.

From the beginning of time man has encountered this
temptation, and in all too many instances has fallen easily (and
perhaps unknowingly) into the habit of being continuously un-
happy about the way he is treated, the way things are done,
or the way other people act. This unhappiness brings on grumpi-
ness and grumpiness is the handmaiden of rudeness. Every day
friendships are broken and customers are lost because of dis-
courtesy or tactlessness.

Railroaders who are dealing with the public frequently
encounter things which can be annoying - a request for an un-
usual service, a seemingly unjustified complaint, conflicting in-
structions. The first reaction of the grumblers is to "tell 'em where
to get off." Their trademark is the old self-righteous, "they can't
pull that stuff on me" attitude.

Our motto is "Service with Courtesy." Where our service has
been no better than that of our competitors, the courtesy has
made the difference. Through the years we have been fortunate
to have employees who understand the importance of being
courteous above all things. We feel very strongly that this out-
look has contributed materially to our success.

Making a habit of being polite is one of the finest qualities
of human nature and it is one of the first rules of success. It
goes without saying that when the time comes for promotions
and raises it pays to have a reputation for being courteous and
cooperative.

If you're in the grumbling business, you would do well to
liquidate today. You would be much better off in the courtesy
business.