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Here are Robbie and Andy in action last October 3rd, part of the trio entertaining at an elegant cocktail party in the Corinthian Event Center, in San Jose. Like in any conversation, we not only listen to what the other is saying, but, believe me, we play everything to make being there easier and more enjoyable for each other.
This is exactly how the Magnolia Jazz Band serves every party’s guests, whether at a wedding, banquet, or open house. You like to work this way too? Thanks to Chris Johnson for the nice photo.
Speaking of “serving”, I just had a real eye-opening experience. Recently I’ve spent a lot of time at the Stanford Hospital, sitting with a family member recovering from surgery. The nurses I met there are amazing — always cheerful & optimistic, warm & personable, and very efficient in a job that’s both demanding and life-and-death crucial. After taking care of their patients, they’re always asking “Anything else I can help with?” And they answer every request with a smile. Wonderful, and I’m sure their attitude plays a significant role in their patients’ progress.
I mention their attitude here because it reminds me so much of what we all do every day. “We” being the various professionals who serve at weddings, parties, and other social events.
“Serve” is the operational word here, and it applies to each of us. No matter what line of work we’re in, once we master the skills of our profession, the best of us use our abilities to help our clients get whatever they wish for. In a recent conversation about our previous careers, my friend David Ethridge recently put it simply, “It was a really rewarding job but I love working directly with people“. An outstanding videographer and a tireless networker, David sets a fine example for all of us.
Caterers, restaurants, hotels, and all their associates, including musicians, usually consider ourselves in the “hospitality” industry, but I think a better category would be the “service” industry. This subtle change in attitude makes a world of difference. Our job is the same, of course, but HOW we do the job changes from our thinking “Here’s what we’re selling, and I sincerely think you really need it. Please consider buying.” and becomes “Thank you for telling me what you’d like. Here’s how I can get it for you, and I’ll be honored to deliver it. Plus a little extra.” It’s all about them, not about us. No matter how much we believe in our own product, our top priority should be serving our clients’ wishes.
Like those nurses’ attitude, this eagerness to serve goes a long way toward assuring success — both for our clients and for ourselves. So, the next time you’re in a business conversation, with a client or a colleague, offer to be of service just a little more, and see how it helps.
Speaking of “service”, the band has been helping lots of people this year, and I’m always on the lookout for more opportunities. For instance, will you be celebrating a significant event soon? Throw a party and include us. Are friends talking about a wedding? Please recommend us. Today I’m talking with people hosting parties for Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. If you’ll have a soiree on one of these days, or on any day in between, now’s a good time to arrange the details, including the music.
Have a question? We’ll have the answer. Call us at 408-245-9120. You’ll love what we do. We’re easy to work with, so let our experience help your celebration.
In the meantime, please catch the Magnolia Jazz Band at a few public events coming up. On Sunday, April 12, we’ll be entertaining during Easter brunch at The Toll House Hotel, in Los Gatos. Two days later, on Tuesday, April 14, we’ll create a lively atmosphere for the annual “S.V.C.A. Hospitality Awards” at Club Auto Sport, in San Jose. Please visit MagnoliaJazz.com for details, and I hope to see you soon.
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Meanwhile, the Magnolia Jazz Band entertains at weddings and parties throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. If you are ever nearby, you’ll love catching us in action, seeing and hearing us create a great mood.
How can I help you? Call 408-245-9120 or use Robbie@MagnoliaJazz.com. Planning a celebration? Ask about our availability.
