Q & A
WENDAL GIVENS
Describe the most stressful situation you have had at work . How did you handle the situation ? What would you have done differently ?
The most stressful situation I ’ ve had was dealing with the death of a young child of a family friend , which was sudden . This couple was expecting a wonderful baby girl . I had participated in all the pre-celebratory activities because of our family bond . I received a call that the baby was born but was not in good health at the time of birthing . Totally unexpected , the little girl passed away 5 days after suffering severe breathing complications . It was difficult to minister to the family because of the situation , but I managed to encourage them , even in the midst of such of tragedy .
Tell me about a situation when you were able to have a positive influence on another person or group of people .
I was able to host an informative seminar for area seniors entitled , “ Get Your House In Order ,” which covered wills , power of attorney , and pre-burial options . I developed a great relationship with this group of older ladies and gentleman , and have been their guest speaker for the past 3 years at their annual event . They continually express their gratitude for the information and always remind me of the amount of fun we have together at each year ’ s event .
Describe a time that you went above and beyond when consoling someone .
One situation that arose , which I was glad to help with , was when the mother of a church member lost her husband while they were on vacation . The family was unsure how they were going to get the remains back to the United States , and also concerned about their mother ’ s welfare on the cruise without their father ’ s guidance . I was able to get the mother to an area of the ship where they provided her with computer services so family members could video chat with her . We made the necessary arrangements to have his body sent to the morgue on the ship , and made arrangements to get the wife back to the states as soon as possible .
Tell me about a time you served as a team leader for a project . How did your leadership help the team accomplish its goals ?
I served as team leader for a back-to-school drive that was done for the community . I worked closely with local agencies that brought a great deal of
support to this effort . We were able to give away over 200 book bags and school supplies . I also connected the local sororities , fraternities , and masonic family to support this effort .
Imagine that there is a conflict between two people at a funeral service . How would you resolve the conflict ?
I would resolve the conflict by first identifying any immediate dangers to the family , my staff , or anyone else present . I would try to diffuse the situation by getting the parties involved to respect the place setting , a funeral service . If my attempts were to no avail , I would call authorities to assist in the matter .
What does excellent customer service mean to you in this industry ?
Excellent customer service is when a family can come home after a celebration of life for their loved one and call the funeral director to merely thank them for the wonderful service and embalming work . Other examples of excellent customer service include a family noticing the extra limousine we provided to them free of charge , or perhaps lapel flowers we may provide if a family member does not have one ; that ’ s great customer service .
What demographics are you most comfortable working and interacting with ?
I can adapt to most demographics . Being a country boy , its evident that I ’ m well versed in the country lifestyle . I enjoy serving the rural areas , the customs , and traditions that come along with it .
PAGE
13