How do the CMs do it?

[sleepydog25]

Which is one of the reasons Bicker, myself and others, stand by the policy that if we all don't follow the rules, guidelines, and correct behavior of society and in this case Disney, we all suffer for it.

Sign me up, too. Sometimes the lessons our parents, grandparents, and their parents before taught us still ring true. Treat everyone with respect as you would want them to treat you. Part of the problem as I see it is that our own particular culture has accepted the "star" mentality as a birthright. In other words, so many kids are being raised today to believe that actors, pro athletes, models, and entertainers are the people to emulate. No longer are they led to believe that there is dignity in unexciting fields like retail, sales, farming, management, personnel, teaching, and scores of others.

So, who do our kids see as role models these days? Vapid, vain, egotistical, selfish personalities whose sole claim to fame is being blessed with good hand-eye coordination, good looks, or good fortune. We've become a culture obsessed with what's on the outside that counts, not the worthy soul underneath. Thus, if it's good enough for an actor to throw a fit when his coffee isn't hot enough, then certainly it's okay for us to do the same. It is no wonder then we have rude guests who wind up creating rude CMs (though I've yet to run across a truly rude CM--overall they do exceptionally well in a tough environment). To misappropriate a famous quote: "Anger is the first refuge of an unintelligent and unreasonable mind."

 

[Beca]

What can I say? I agree with everything you said.

Disney Ron

Thanks!!

HBC....see what you started??!!!!

Personally....I think threads like this one ought run for awhile every so often.



Beca

 

[DisneyBaby!]

I agree and am apalled by the behavior of the guests. My dad calls it the LCD of humaity. This is the problem with Disney or any tourist heavy destination. It attracts the Lowest Common Denominator of Humanity, the dregs of society. (Please, I do not mean that the Disney Faithfull are dregs). Look at the way they are dressed, the way they act and talk. I don't care where you are from or how much money you have. Trash is Trash. I just want to scream "get some class, leave the poor CM alone!!!"

Something that happened to me the last time in Disney is a perfect example of the LCD. This did not happen dirrectly to a CM but they handled the situation very well. I am going into MK, and there is a Family of Indian/Pakistani origin (not arab) who is having difficulty with his ticket, he can't get it to work. CM tells him, must be the machine, why not step over and use the next one (my line). The people in front of me (ugly americans) were not too happy, they thought they should go to the back of the line or that the Indian family cut in front of Ugly Americans. Words are exchanged but the Indian Family continues on and the father says something back to the effect of why don't you leave us alone. Mr Ugly American becomes incensed and begins yelling "you better not be there when I get in the park buddy! Why don't you go back to where you are from, Get out of my Country!" Now Security is slowly making its presence known, the CM at the gate is telling eveyone to "calm down, please, I told him to come over." but also stalling the line so the Indian Family could go on their way. Now as it is settling down, the guy behind me (mr Big Mouth) yells out to Ugly American "hey Buddy, I got your Back! I hate them, they Stink! They should go back to their own country, They Stink!" I can't stand it anymore I turn to Big Mouth and say, "You know, It's people like YOU that makes the rest of the world hate Americans" he mumbles something about how he works with them and they smell, he hates them, I say I do to and they are nice. Everyone is in the park, no incidents, but I am sure security kept an eye on things. I get the stroller, tell the wife what happend, she can't believe it.

This is not about the racist comments, I am suburban white male so I have no idea what it is like to have that happen to me, but the Ugly Hatefull things people say and how people love to chime in. The utter lack of civilty and class. Just like someone getting angry as you slide past them to catch up with the family after you put the stroller away. Like I'm jumping in line? What, the extra 30 sec. are going to kill you? This is classic LCD Behavior. Don't get me started on not giving up seats on the busses! Absolutely Disgusting behavior.

 

[Happy Birthday Cat]

HBC....see what you started??!!!!

Personally....I think threads like this one ought run for awhile every so often.

That was my reason for starting it. I have read this type of thread many times over the years but it does need to be repeated every once in a while.

HBC

 

[Beca]

I agree and am apalled by the behavior of the guests. My dad calls it the LCD of humaity. This is the problem with Disney or any tourist heavy destination. It attracts the Lowest Common Denominator of Humanity, the dregs of society. (Please, I do not mean that the Disney Faithfull are dregs). Look at the way they are dressed, the way they act and talk. I don't care where you are from or how much money you have. Trash is Trash. I just want to scream "get some class, leave the poor CM alone!!!"

Something that happened to me the last time in Disney is a perfect example of the LCD. This did not happen dirrectly to a CM but they handled the situation very well. I am going into MK, and there is a Family of Indian/Pakistani origin (not arab) who is having difficulty with his ticket, he can't get it to work. CM tells him, must be the machine, why not step over and use the next one (my line). The people in front of me (ugly americans) were not too happy, they thought they should go to the back of the line or that the Indian family cut in front of Ugly Americans. Words are exchanged but the Indian Family continues on and the father says something back to the effect of why don't you leave us alone. Mr Ugly American becomes incensed and begins yelling "you better not be there when I get in the park buddy! Why don't you go back to where you are from, Get out of my Country!" Now Security is slowly making its presence known, the CM at the gate is telling eveyone to "calm down, please, I told him to come over." but also stalling the line so the Indian Family could go on their way. Now as it is settling down, the guy behind me (mr Big Mouth) yells out to Ugly American "hey Buddy, I got your Back! I hate them, they Stink! They should go back to their own country, They Stink!" I can't stand it anymore I turn to Big Mouth and say, "You know, It's people like YOU that makes the rest of the world hate Americans" he mumbles something about how he works with them and they smell, he hates them, I say I do to and they are nice. Everyone is in the park, no incidents, but I am sure security kept an eye on things. I get the stroller, tell the wife what happend, she can't believe it.

This is not about the racist comments, I am suburban white male so I have no idea what it is like to have that happen to me, but the Ugly Hatefull things people say and how people love to chime in. The utter lack of civilty and class. Just like someone getting angry as you slide past them to catch up with the family after you put the stroller away. Like I'm jumping in line? What, the extra 30 sec. are going to kill you? This is classic LCD Behavior. Don't get me started on not giving up seats on the busses! Absolutely Disgusting behavior.

Okay....they should ALL have to hold hands and ride "It's a Small World" 8 times in a row with my 4yr old dd who sings at the top of her lungs!!!

But, seriously....don't you know Walt is just in his grave right now!!!!

I agree about the LCD...but, the bigger problem with WDW, is that they are the "LCD with money" and a sense of entitlement...that is TRULY the LCD of humanity!!!



Beca

 

[JodyTG]

I remember checking in a few years back at POFQ (one of my pre-DVC trips) and the person in front of me was just VILE. She didn't get her requests and made her anger known...loudly. She eventually left and I got the same CM. I could tell that she was on the verge of tears. I smiled at her and told her to take a few deep breaths and my DD (only 5 at the time) told her to hold her doll because it always makes her feel better. (Yes, even a child this young can tell when someone needs a little pick-me-up.) Well...the CM smiled at that and held my daughter's doll the whole time she was checking us in. Once she finished with us, she gave the doll a kiss on the cheek before she handed it back to my DD. She told my DD that the doll must have some Disney magic in it because it did make her feel better. Then the CM looked at me and thanked me, again with tears in her eyes. I asked her if she was okay and she told me that she had really needed us at that time because it seemed like she'd had all of the upset guests so far that day. After that, each time we walked through the reception area, she remembered us and always asked my DD how her doll was doing...always with a big smile on her face.

Being kind to someone takes so little effort and can make the world of difference to the person receiving that kindness. I'm glad I could teach that to my DD at such a young age.

 

[Beca]

I remember checking in a few years back at POFQ (one of my pre-DVC trips) and the person in front of me was just VILE. She didn't get her requests and made her anger known...loudly. She eventually left and I got the same CM. I could tell that she was on the verge of tears. I smiled at her and told her to take a few deep breaths and my DD (only 5 at the time) told her to hold her doll because it always makes her feel better. (Yes, even a child this young can tell when someone needs a little pick-me-up.) Well...the CM smiled at that and held my daughter's doll the whole time she was checking us in. Once she finished with us, she gave the doll a kiss on the cheek before she handed it back to my DD. She told my DD that the doll must have some Disney magic in it because it did make her feel better. Then the CM looked at me and thanked me, again with tears in her eyes. I asked her if she was okay and she told me that she had really needed us at that time because it seemed like she'd had all of the upset guests so far that day. After that, each time we walked through the reception area, she remembered us and always asked my DD how her doll was doing...always with a big smile on her face.

Being kind to someone takes so little effort and can make the world of difference to the person receiving that kindness. I'm glad I could teach that to my DD at such a young age.

Okay...that is SOO sweet!!! I've got tears in my eyes!!



Beca

 

[DisneyBaby!]

Beca,
Amen to that. And yes my pont was not but probably the worst behavior I have seen, and I worked at a top Chicago tourist attraction.

LCD w/$ is perhaps the most dangerous of all creatures you will find on your tour of WDW. Do not look diffectly into their eyes, it will only anger them more. If they do become angered, curl into a fetal position to better protect vital organs from damage. Their anger runs will run its course, they will loose interest and find a new unsuspecting innocent bystander to become victim to their rage. The venom of the LCD w/$ can be very dangerous, antivenom in the form of a a spin on the Mad Tea Party is usually sufficient. In extreme cases heavy doses of Shooting Range time or the Space Ranger Spin is necessary to expel the dangerous anger that can permeate its victims. This is why we tell all visitors on out tour of WDW to avert their eyes, keep to themselves and, for the love of god, not stirr things up by getting involved. These are rules for your own safety and the safety of others.

 

[sleepydog25]

I smiled at her and told her to take a few deep breaths and my DD (only 5 at the time) told her to hold her doll because it always makes her feel better.

This particular quote is what struck me the most as I read this delightful vignette. That all children could learn such a valuable lesson about compassion at such an early age is one wish I'd make if a genie were to give me three of them. Thanks for sharing. It made me go hug my 5-yr old daughter. . .who is one special cutie herself! I've also decided that I'm going to make it a point to brighten the day of as many CMs as I can on our upcoming trip in June.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Unfortunately, as a trip to WDW gets more and more expensive, I predict that we're doomed to see more and more of this behaviour (for once, I hope my prediction is wrong, though). People save and save for a trip to WDW, and some people, unfortunately, think that earns them "permission" to act like slobs, behave rudely, etc. I base this prediction on my experience as a teacher. The most inconsiderate, slobby students I ever had was when I worked at an expensive, private school. The students seemed to think, and some even informed me, that since they paid such high tuition, some one else should pick up after them. (In defense of them, they weren't ALL like that!)

 

[NancyDVC]

Oh, there's lots of explanations....

1. CMs are heavily sedated right before starting a shift; a different kind of pixie dust.
2. Hypnotism: makes every guest, no matter how irate, look like the hot chick/stud of the CM's dreams.
3. Financial incentives; the longer a guest rants, the more the 'combat pay' meter keeps increasing (all paid for by DVC dues/MF)
4. The on-site SR/GV (Stress Removal / Guest Vengance) Center, where CMs can unload their tension - and a 44 Magnum - into various guest-shaped items.

Seriously, ITA, HBC. I'm one of those crazy folks - just like dear Beca - who actually tries to brighten the CMs days a little bit, with thank you's, positive comments, etc. So it really fries my bacon (and cooks my eggs and toasts my bread - hey, I'm getting hungry) when some self-important donkey decides to berate a CM because something - usually out of that CMs control - isn't what the guest expects. Even when one has a legitimate complaint (there's a hole in my wall, there's no bed in the bed room, there's feces everywhere ) there's usually no need to raise one's voice; if the CM can't help, get a manager, don't scream.

I too give a tip of the DrTomorrow topper to all those hard-working and rant-enduring CMs.

I work in a hospital and teach in our organization's "Customer Service" classes. I often use Disney as the best example that I can think of when to show what excellent customer service is.
Now my next question is Dr. Tomorrow "Where can I get those items you mention above?" I could really use some of those things in my job.

 

[Disney Doll]

In January I was waiting to pay for something in the MK Emporium. In line ahead of me the guest became increasing loud. Apparently, the guest wanted to charge his purchase on his room key card but it wasn't signed. The CM advised she needed to see identification and for him to sign the card in her presence. The guest stated he had been using the unsigned card for days and he wasn't going to sign it. The CM was very patient and pleasant and the guest became increasingly loud, disrespectful and rude. He told her to shut-up several times and get her manager. The manager came over who explained the rules again and the guest became very antagonistic with her. Called her a fat cow and screamed at her to shut up! He screamed 3-4 times in a row - "Just shut up! Just shut up! Just shut up!" She tried to talk him into moving to a private area to discuss further. My jaw was dropped during most of this. I finally could not bite my tongue anymore and made a comment to the kids loud enough for the "guest" (I am using that term loosely at this point) to hear, something to the effect "Disney could do without loud, ignorant, obnoxious, egotistical and rude guests like this bully. The "guest" turned around and gave me a look that still chills me to the bone when I think about it. At that point I wish I had kept my mouth shut but I felt so bad for the CMs I felt compelled to speak up when everyone else just stopped to watch the show. A male CM then came over and the "guest" almost immediately calmed down and went quietly with the male CM. I mention the CM's gender because the guest was foreign to the USA and, I believe, from a Middle Eastern country where women are subservient. His spouse was next to him the whole time and showed absolutely no emotion. The guest seemed to calm down dramatically when teh male CM came into the picture. It was sooo strange! If my DH had been making a scene like that, I would have been tugging on his arm or walking away. I don't know the outcome but I don’t' care who was right or wrong in the dispute, civilized people should not speak to one another like that! On the lighter side, my DS was also apparently chilled by the guest's look because he ran outside to get my DH to come save me! Unfortunately, the whole thing had dissipated by the time my Prince Charmings came to save me!

I am a nurse and work with many male interns who are of Middle Eastern descent and I know exactly the look you are talking about. The only difference is when they give me that look, I look right back at them and say "And exactly who is it that you think you rae giving that horribly nasty, dirty, filthy look to? Certainly, you can't possibly think that the likes of you is going to intimidate me, can you?"

It is amazing how "small" those "men" suddenly become when they realize they have encountered a woman who can and will kick their figurative butt.

And no, I ma not profiling or streotyping. I am reporting facts. But I don't get the same reaction from any other interns of any other nationality.

Welcome to America

 

[Disney Doll]

My wife and I live in Hershey - Chocolate Town, USA. She has appointed herself a goodwill ambassador, bring ing chocolatre from home to share with front desk, towncar drivers, etc. She always has some extra product with her to present to some abused CM. Last trip it was a bus driver and a boat pilot from WL who were subjected to callous, rude guest behavior, in both cases for things that were out of there control. We hope the chocolate helps - it can't hurt.

Chocolate always helps.

 

[byoung]

I would think they are trained for a lot.

 

[Sammie]

Thanks!!

HBC....see what you started??!!!!

Personally....I think threads like this one ought run for awhile every so often.



Beca

Your comment about children's tears reminded of a scene at the MK one night during Extra Magic Hours. An off site guest was given a CM a horrible time about not being able to stay and ride, and what a rip off and they could not afford to stay on site, etc, You know the drill. The CM stood his ground and very politely just kept telling the guest, "I am sorry but this is a perk for Disney resort guests only".

Finally the man stormed away, rejoined his family and told his very young son, I will find another employee and you better ball your eyes out over not getting to ride or I will beat the crap out of you.

Well of course, yall knowing me, Moral Cop and all, I warned a CM and security intervened. I only hope that poor child did not recieve a beating after they left.

I have many friends at Disney and all say that lately their greatest challenge is dealing with the lack of morality in their guests and their attempts to scam Disney. That it ruins the experience for everyone, the guest who does right, and the employee who tries to enforce policy without being strong arm about it. They are constantly having to come up with ways to enforce policy in a passive way and the cost of that is passed on to everyone.

 

[Sammie]

I'm very easy going as it is, and always try to be as nice and pleasant to the CM's as possible.

And I've noticed, as I'm sure other have also, that when you're nice to them, they're even nicer in return, and often will go beyond their regular service to help you even more.

I think they appreciate you even more when you're nice, and you in return receive their best service. Just MHO.

Oh you are definitely right. They so appreciate it. When checking into the Yacht Club one day, a man literally had berated the CM so badly, she was on the verge of tears. As he stormed away and I was next to check-in, she looked up and said I guess it's your turn, take your best shot. I simply smiled and said, "You have the prettiest shade of red hair". She of course burst into tears, but with a huge smile on her face. She said, "no one ever says anything nice to us anymore, Thank You".

 

[Mike and Natalie]

Some people do not deserve the opportunity to visit WDW. I can ever understand how someone can berate a CM or anyone else for that matter. It just baffles me to no end. While I know it doesn't help the situation by getting involved, I would have a very hard time just sitting back as a bystander and not saying anything.

 

[DVC Sadie]

What really burns my bacon is when a rude guest tells the CM (and all bystanders) exactly how much they paid for their vacation so they can basically do what they want when they want. The sense of entitlement in this county is unbelievable whether we're talking about a Disney vacation or anything else. The worst behavior we have ever seen was at the Grand Floridian where some of the guests had no clue as to behaving in public. Some of the childrens behavior was ungodly and the parents were totally clueless. Does anyone else ever feel that if they hear one more time that they "deserve" such and such that they just want to scream? Maybe I am in a minority here but I didn't realize that people deserved a WDW vacation, silly me I always thought that vacationing no matter where someone decides to travel was a privilege. The CMs "deserve" combat pay IMO. ETA: I am now screaming because I used the taboo word "deserve".

 

[bobbiwoz]

Oh you are definitely right. They so appreciate it. When checking into the Yacht Club one day, a man literally had berated the CM so badly, she was on the verge of tears. As he stormed away and I was next to check-in, she looked up and said I guess it's your turn, take your best shot. I simply smiled and said, "You have the prettiest shade of red hair". She of course burst into tears, but with a huge smile on her face. She said, "no one ever says anything nice to us anymore, Thank You".

Now my eyes watered!

Bobbi

 

[llp479]

Unfortunately this behavior isn't unique to WDW. It's prevelant in our society today and turns my stomach. "The world owes me" seems to be the attitude of so many. What ever happened to the good old golden rule - do unto others as you would have done to you.