A rule-based management style can be useful, but decisions must also take into account individual circumstances. Rigidly applying rules without judgment or empathy leads to poor service outcomes.
In this case, the decision made by the front desk duty manager, Ms. Makiko Misawa, demonstrated a clear lack of professional judgment and customer service capability. Her manner was unfriendly, unsympathetic, and unprofessional, which made us feel unwelcome, uncomfortable, and hopeless.
The entire process was extremely frustrating and left me feeling helpless. Ms. Misawa’s attitude and conduct did not meet the basic standards expected of a front desk manager.
In contrast, Ms. Zhou Xin Tong provided professional, considerate, and effective assistance. Without her intervention, the situation would have been far worse. Her conduct deserves recognition.