Gamers Unite!
"Can we come over and play video games with Max?"
When AWD clients visit Kansas City, I pride myself on making every effort to ensure their visit to KC is special. Whether that means arranging transportation for them, accommodating specific shopping requests (I had a client once whose friend was expecting a baby, so we had to find a store that had a specific baby item), introducing them to Kansas City BBQ, or giving them a taste of Midwestern life by driving them through the city and the suburbs.
I feel it's always important to show clients a good time when they get to town and to give them a sense of what the rest of the city is like beyond the Plaza and downtown. Many are used to living in crowded, dense areas, so they're usually amazed at how sprawling things are around here.
After we've taken care of the business side of things, I often invite clients over to my house for dinner. The casual atmosphere is more relaxing than a restaurant, and I think it's nice to serve them a home-cooked meal and really get to know them. Honestly, it's not about the food. It's more about having a chance to sit around with them in a comfortable environment. I also have to admit that part of my reasons for inviting clients over are selfish. I think it's really important to expose my sons, Max and Adam, to different people from different cultures.
When clients come over, I'll usually grill burgers, hotdogs, and brats, or if the weather is cold, my wife, Robin, will serve a nice meal; nothing fancy, just some good American cooking.
During one such visit, one of our clients found my family's ancient MAME video game machine and decided to have a go at Pac Man, Space Invaders and a few other classic video games. It was a lot of fun and with Max and Adam, we played late into the evening. After thoroughly enjoying ourselves, everyone said their goodbyes, expecting to catch up with each other Monday morning at AWD headquarters.
Over the weekend, I got a special request from one of the clients who called to ask, "Can we come over and play video games with Max?" My sons and I were only too happy to oblige.
