You know those people who just seem to naturally emit a warm, maternal vibe? Like, you feel a bit safer, or something, when they’re around? Might sounds silly, but at OFS, for me, that person is Jean, pictured here with her customer service team/family (she’s the second from the right).
From left to right Judy, Rachel, Connie, Amanda, Jean and Heather
So today, let’s get to know Jean a bit, shall we?
Me: How long have you worked at OnlineFabricStore?
Jean: I’m just hitting the four and a half year mark with the company and I enjoy it as much now as I did the day I started, through all its growth and changes.
Me: Why did you decide to become a customer service rep at OFS?
Jean: I believe it was in my blood! One of those meant to be situations. I’ve been in customer service of one kind or another since 1980. Ok, and now you know I’m not the baby of the group either. It’s what I was meant to do, get paid to talk. Doesn’t get much better than that!
Me: Share a customer service story that has stood out to you.
Jean: I wish I could think of one that stood out. The truth is 90% are memorable and we could be here all day talking about them. There has been an occasion or two when something didn’t go as planned, so you feel bad because you want to be sure everyone is happy but you feel guilty like you could have done more. At that point you have to stop, regroup and remind yourself that no one ever died because their fabric wasn’t delivered!!
Me: What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
Jean: It’s a two part really. My co-workers, we’ve all become close which is important when you spend as much time together as we do. We’ve celebrated good times in each other’s lives and offered support for the not so good. It’s like having an office of little sisters. The relationships you develop with repeat customers are great too. We have many repeat customer and over the years you become friends listening to the reasons for their project and stories about their families. We speak to people from all over the world. Every day is fresh and different.
Me: What’s one of your favorite OnlineFabricStore fabrics?
Jean: I love minky fabrics, because they feel incredible. Doesn’t matter if you’re 9 or 90. Everyone loves them. Nothing like cuddling up in a minky throw.
Handmade blanket made with flannel and White Minky Stripe fabric
Me: How did you learn to sew?
Jean: I started sewing in 7th grade and knew I loved it right from the get go, in spite of sewing through the tip of my finger guiding fabric through a needle feed. A valuable lesson I learned early on. Never did it again.
Me: What’s your favorite thing to make?
Jean: I’ve done everything from apparel to quilts to dog coats. The quilts are my favorite because it’s nice to think that you’re creating an heirloom that may be passed on for generations.
Me: What are your hobbies outside of OFS?
Jean: I love to garden and quilt. There is a real sense of satisfaction in planting or sewing and seeing the project come to completion.
Me: Amen!