To people with the gift of true humility, it’s always a mystery as to what arrogant individuals hope to gain by their attitude.

Webster defines arrogance as “a sense or affectation of superiority.” Undoubtedly the “superior” being is trying to impress his importance upon others. But if they could know the secret ridicule and resentment they arouse in those they seek to impress, they would dump the superior attitude.

Rather than winning respect, such an attitude stamps it’s owner as having an over-inflated ego – a “superiority complex.” Instead of impressing they often merely arouse contempt.

The formula for winning friends never changes. The important elements are sincerity, friendliness and humility. One arrogant individual can drive away more business than a dozen not so arrogant others can create.

Alexander Hamilton, a founding father of the United States, once said “The true gauge of superiority is humility. Great men are invariably humble men. They know so much that they are able to realize how little they know.”

Success in handling customers calls for warmth, friendliness and common (uncommon) sense. It is a fatal mistake to be otherwise.