Another experience at Red Robin was a Buddy and I went there and before we got the order the power went out. Not sure what our waitresses name was but either she was frazzled from the power going out or having a bad day…but it was very much on the surface…

She brought the fries out very quickly and we didn’t have to hint…after she brought them out we encouraged her to keep bringing them.

On this experience it has been a while since we have gone so I don’t recall all the details but there was a point where she said she just wanted to get out and go shopping and I think it was for her wedding…I asked….”you stressed”? She said “yes”. I said, “I can tell”…She was shocked that I said that and that it was obvious, then she was embarrassed…

She gave our bill and we gave a big tip and she said “are you sure?” and we just said have a great day shopping.

On a side note, the hamburger was real bad, it didn’t have that smokedish type flavor. It was as if because the power was out that they had back up generic burgers for this type of occasion. No big, expectations, attitude in check.

While we initially got our food the manager was making the rounds and said that they will be closing their doors soon because the rooms where filling with fumes from the lack of ventilation fans working. We understood and I asked if he was doing some “Damage Control”? He said “yes”. I said when you’re done come back and see me.

He came back. I asked my question about choice and freewill and he said yes we do… so we talked about it. I taught him about it. I told him about some of the other experiences I have had. He asked for names. I didn’t give any. I told him that I am actively networking and told him that I am not a “food critic” but a people critic so to speak and I help business and their relationships improve.

He asked for a business card. I didn’t have one but told him I may be back but gave him some homework assignments to watch and observe himself and his people…

One thing to note is in these situations I am never dressed in business or even casual attire…Almost always shorts and a T-Shirt. This poses an interesting situation. I watch and listen to see if the people are actively engaged. I watch body language, there are always subtle of not obvious “tells” or signs of their level of engagement.

I do this on purpose…to observe them as they are talking to me the way I am. I know that if I dressed better there would be a different level of engagement…I want my words to speak for themselves so to speak and I want real genuine experiences, nothing fake or forced. It seems to work out well.