Hi, my name is Brenda Uting. I am the Administrative Assistant for the Parks and Recreation Department. My number one job is customer service. I’m usually the first point of contact when you call our office or stop by. I receive a variety of phone calls ranging from questions about trees to where is the closest tennis court. Over the years I’ve learned just enough general information to know when to provide a general answer or when to pass the caller onto someone with more information. It’s that variety that keeps my job very interesting.
Tuesday, August 21 is the first day for fall program registration, so I’m receiving many phone calls regarding recreation programs and services. I also answer the ‘live help’ instant messaging communications from people who need some assistance on eConnect, our online registration system. Most of the calls or messages are requests for a family account number and personal identification number. These numbers are used to identify the participant when they register online or via the automated phone system.
I receive a few calls that are beyond my scope of Parks and Recreation. Last week someone wanted to know if I knew of any good resorts in northern Minnesota; and about twice a year I get asked if we have a citywide garage sale (by the way, we don’t – but a lot of neighborhoods hold big sales.)
Occasionally I get the “angry caller”. You might think that would ruin my day, but I know those angry callers are upset with the situation, not with me. I also find that they can be nice folks to talk with once we get to the point of the conversation where we can determine what needs to be done to address their concerns, or at least have their concerns heard.
If you need some assistance in the Parks and Recreation Department, give me a call (952-949-8442) or send me an email (parks@edenprairie.org). I’ll be happy to help you – with all of your questions, concerns, comments.
