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What’s On My Plate?

Did you know the week of January 5th was National Thank Your Customers Week? But just in case you’re wondering, we don’t call you “customers.” Instead, at Healthy Living, you’re “guests.”  Why? Because hospitality has always been our focus and guests are “invited into a home.” We like to think HL is your “third place” … after home and work, we’re like the third place you inhabit! So, when you walk through our doors, I hope you feel like a guest and know that we’re grateful you’re here! 

I like to think that the hospitality our staff provides sets us apart and has a positive effect on your experience and on your community.  At our South Burlington store, I’m fortunate to work with Henry Kenyon, our Guest Services Supervisor. Henry’s had a bunch of different roles at HL, and no matter what job he’s taken on, he does it with the kind of natural hospitality focus I love. 

Whether he’s working with staff, vendors, farmers, service providers, or you, Henry simply exudes that energy and extra-mile-service. I recently had a chat with Henry, and here it is!

Katy: Henry, you seem dedicated to the kind of hospitality I believe in. What do you love about your work at HL? 

Henry: I really think it’s cool that so many guests know my name and I know theirs. We’re on a first-name basis! They notice when I’m not here and ask what I’ve been up to. They feel comfortable asking me to get in products that we might not carry or even what I recommend. It’s my opportunity to make their day better! It’s also part of my job to help staff feel empowered to do the same. 

Katy: So how do you inspire your team of cashiers and guest services to be like you? That’s a tall order! 

Henry: First, in interviews I always look for people who seem sociable, smile a lot, and want to be part of what I call the “internal community.” That’s how we work together as one big, unified team to accomplish our mission, which is to create the amazing guest experience that people rarely expect nowadays. I work closely with my team to ensure that they understand the goal and give them all the great tools we have for success. 

Katy: Tell me about the rest of your life! 

Henry: I’m super busy! I’ve been part of the Vermont Army National Guard for 4 years which makes me feel like I’m an integral part of my community. While at UVM I was in the band and choir. Also, there’s camping, travel … wow, I am a super busy guy! 

Henry is the kind of person I am so proud to work with. He’s learned and grown with us, supervises a hugely important team, and serves up the kindness, attention to detail, and genuine service that has been part of my mission for the past almost 40 years!  Thank you, Henry Kenyon!! 

And thank you, Guests! I truly hope you feel the vibe, the love, the community when you’re in the aisles, the Café, and at our registers.    

Katy

P.S. If you’re interested in working with Henry and the entire HL team, we’re hiring!