Every day more than 18,000 Avis employees try harder at locations throughout North America. This past summer, as part of our celebration of the 40th anniversary of “We Try Harder,” we asked you to tell us about an extraordinary experience with an Avis employee who is a great example of “Who Tries Harder.”

The 40 winning entries below were judged and chosen by Brand Keys®, a brand equity & customer loyalty research consultancy. The customer submitting the grand prize winning entry has won the use of a new Chevrolet Trailblazer for one-year. Each of the 39 runners up receives a free one-week rental from Avis.

Plus, each Avis employee who inspired an award-winning entry will receive a valuable prize through the company’s “Right Direction” employee recognition program -- including an extra cash award for the grand prize winners.

Avis would like to thank the thousands of customers who took the time to write in and tell us “Who Tries Harder.” We remain committed to trying harder for you every day.

Bettina Woodbery, Latoya Dell and Helen Mateychuk - Bradley International Airport, CT - (submitted by: Christopher J. Kinsman)
While traveling to Massachusetts to be with my cousin while her dad (my uncle) underwent brain surgery, I stopped at Avis. As Latoya efficiently looked for the best car at the cheapest price, I discovered that I had put all my extra cash into my checking account to use on my check card and didn't open up room on my credit card for the car rental. Latoya patiently checked card after card for me without success. She then suggested I use the customer phone to call my card company and free up some room. Gladly I called, only to find out that unless I used a western union office, any payment would take a day to credit. I'd miss my uncle's operation and let my cousin down (her mom passed away 2 years earlier). Then Bettina offered to call competitor companies to see if they'd accept a check card as security on the account. After 7 or 8 calls we had no luck. During that time Helen overheard our dilemma and looked up the local western union office and found it was 2 miles away. Then they offered to drive me there, wait while I opened up room on my card, and drive me back to get my car. The operation was 100% success; the trip was 100% fabulous because Avis staff gave 200%!! Thank you for trying harder even when it meant possibly turning my business over to someone else. The next time I rent a car, I'm going to try harder to find the Avis office!

Fernando Castillo - San Antonio, TX - (submitted by: Louis Dyer)
Fernando Castillo is simply superman. In close to 100-degree heat and high humidity he took the time to install our two baby car seats in our rental. When one car seat wouldn't install according to the requirements he recommended and issued us another van that would ensure that our kids were safe while traveling with us. The operation took almost an hour and Fernando was of course covered in sweat from head to toe. I could see that he was driven by a need to ensure safety and by a high degree of professionalism. He moved our luggage from one car to another and my wife and kids could wait and play in the air-conditioned lobby the whole time. He was courteous and gave us his full attention the entire time. People like Fernando Castillo are not only great professionals, but great people that every once in a while cross your path and brighten your day. Kudos to Fernando and Avis San Antonio Airport!

Jenn Gilbert - Manchester, NH - (submitted by: Dale Clark)
I own a chemical company that is growing 10-15% a month. This means most of my work weeks have travel to some part of the country to meet with sales reps, customers, or suppliers. Time has never been as critical or short as lately. I notice when people go beyond the normal call of duty and can appreciate these actions. Today, with competitive pricing, many available options, etc. the only difference is the performance of the front line person that deals with the customer.

Jenn Gilbert allowed for a late night pick up of a vehicle so that I could make an early morning presentation that has allowed my company to continue this rapid growth. Without her help and assistance I would not have been able to make the meeting, close the deal, and add a new salesperson that was contingent on this deal. Her actions and quick response allowed me to remember AVIS. You have a new customer and a new business association. Life is simple. Reward those who perform and forget the rest.

Mary Pondo - Charlotte, NC - (submitted by: Mary-Elizabeth Smith)
Mary is very courteous and helpful, as are all the Avis employees I've encountered. But Mary is exceptionally kind and thoughtful. She noticed that a man who had been on the previous loop through the airport had left a mailing tube of presentation materials on the van. She called Dispatch with his information to track him down and get the materials to him. She was concerned that it would jeopardize his business meeting and maybe his job. I appreciated her effort for him, and I know she would have done the same for me.

Ashley Walker and Roy Pablo - Little Rock, AR - (submitted by: Mark Sippy)
I had rented a car and was returning from Georgia with 3 of my sons (9, 9 and 6) and the car broke down just outside Little Rock. I called the toll free service number and your staff began taking care of business. Asheley from the Little Rock office got in touch with me on my cell and informed me that she would have someone there within the hour to pick me up and get us a new car. Within fifteen minutes a tow truck was there loading up the car and my children and myself and taking us to the airport. (I think the truck drivers were glad to see us go as my three sons were wearing their horns out standing in the truck of the car making them blow their horns as they past.) The tow truck driver took us directly to the Avis counter where Asheley and Roy where waiting for us. Ten minutes later we were in a car and heading for Tulsa Oklahoma and our own beds. We had been on the road for ten hours and we were thinking it was now going to be midnight before we got home, but thanks to your great crew in Little Rock we were home by 10:00pm. Thanks to Asheley and Roy for their great service.

Brenda Santos - Kona, HI - (submitted by: Nicole Earin)
Brenda Santos really did "Try Harder." I was in the middle of a busy workday and I locked the keys in my rental car. I called the local Avis number and Brenda offered to come open my car for me. She drove 20 minutes out of her way after she was finished with her shift to unlock the car. Brenda is a wonderful person and Avis is lucky to have her as part of the team!

George Mendell - Fort Lauderdale, FL - (submitted by: David Marcus)
On April 1, 2002, I went to the Avis car rental counter at Fort Lauderdale airport to pick up my car. The Avis car rental agent told me that she didn’t have any cars left for me and suggested that I go to another car rental company. I was very angry. When boarding the shuttle bus, George Mendell, the Avis shuttle driver, asked me why, after he just dropped me off at the Avis location, was I going back to the airport. I told George Mendell what happened and he was as upset as I was. Mr. George Mendell pulled out a business card from the district manager, Mr. Michael Sheppard, and insisted that I contact him immediately, and he would help me. I spoke to Mr. Sheppard and he told me to contact him the next time I need a car rental and he would personally take care of me. One year later on April 1, 2003, Mr. Mendell took me back to the Avis counter. Mr. Mendell truly cared about me and should be acknowledged and appreciated for his outstanding customer service. I will never forget the kindness Mr. Mendell showed me.

Thomas Coulter - Mesa, AZ (submitted by: James Koller)
I have rented from Mr. Coulter several times, But the one that stands out most in my mind is the time that I had to put my personal car in the shop for service. It was a Sunday afternoon. I called several rental agencies and either nobody was open or they could not help me for whatever reason. I finally called AVIS and Mr. Coulter answered the phone. I explained to him that I needed to rent a car and that I was stranded at the dealership. He explained that he was in a store where he was the only employee. He said if I could wait for about 15 minutes he would lock up the store, come get me and go back to the AVIS store. I said okay. In about 10 minutes he showed up, picked me up and drove back to the AVIS store. In my opinion Mr. Coulter went out of his to assist me and I will continue to rent from Mr. Coulter anytime I have the need to rent a car. He always has a smile and goes out of his way to assist me as much as possible EVERY TIME.........

Ryan Ericksen - Spokane, WA (submitted by: Nancy Hirshberg)
I'm a bit embarrassed because I actually wasn't even a customer- although I will be the next time I rent! I had just flown in from the East coast with my 18-month-old daughter. It was 10:00 pm pacific time on a Friday night (as in 1 a.m. east coast time). I had reserved a car and a baby seat with another rental company. When I went to pick up the car (get the picture- single mom, exhausted toddler, duffle bag, stroller, back pack, suitcase, 95 degrees) I was informed that they didn't have the car seat I had reserved for my 23 lb child- all they had was a booster seat (40lb and up). Uggh. Middle of the night. Four hour drive to the wedding at noon the next day. I had flown 3000 miles and wasn't going to make it to the wedding on time. I figured it couldn't hurt to ask, so I went to the Avis desk. I explained my situation and before I had even finished my sad tale, Ryan Erickson was handing me what looked like a brand new toddler car seat. "No problem" he said with a smile.  "But don't I have to rent a car from you?"  "Just be sure to bring it back to us." Wow. I was on the road with my snoozing daughter within minutes. Made it to the wedding with time to spare. I wasn't a customer and Ryan had no reason to bail me out that night. But he was smart. He was building a long-term customer. I've told dozens of people this story, all with the same conclusion "They really do try harder at Avis!"

Gloria Watkins - Tampa, FL - (submitted by: Joseph J. Begalla)
As a person with over thirty years of business experience in marketing and corporate communications, I know the value of good customer service firsthand. I frequently rent from Avis in Tampa, and on three occasions during the past year or so, Gloria Watkins has impressed me. The first time I did not even meet her - I just observed her deal with a most unpleasant customer who was ahead of me in line. Her demeanor and problem-solving spirit was evident, and I remembered her because she struck me as an individual who knew the value of good customer service.

The second time was this past spring, when after a late arrival, she greeted me cheerfully, and lifted my spirits with an upgrade to help ease the cares of a rough and tumble inbound flight. At that time, I told her that I remembered her from a few months back, and we chatted a bit about the value of positive relationships that are so vital when we are in the service business. I appreciated her personal chat with me very much, since her interests and concerns were genuine. After this encounter with her, I remembered her name, and felt I had a "friend" at Avis in Tampa.

Then, just last week, when circumstances required me to extend, and then re-extend my stay in Florida, I tried to extend my rental agreement. I called Tulsa, I called Canada and I called customer service - and not one of those calls resulted in a reasonable rate for the extension I was seeking. Remembering Gloria, I drove 85 miles from Orlando to see if I could renew at the Tampa airport, since usually the counter personnel are better equipped to help with this type request. I was hoping Ms. Watkins would be there, since I knew if anyone could assist me, she could. She was indeed working that day, and she cheerfully adjusted my contract without breaking any rules. She is a real asset to the Avis organization, and I hope someone will recognize her for her professional and friendly manner that I know reflects well on the Avis commitment to quality service. She is one of those rare jewels in total customer service, and I thank her for it. I hope someone from Avis management will personally thank her on my behalf.

Beverly Benoit - Detroit, MI (submitted by: Mark Liddell)
As a loyal member of National rental car for over 13 years I had a chance to experience Avis which treated me the way a customer should be treated: with courtesy and respect. From the time I was picked up at the airport, to the subtle pleasantry of have my car waiting for me, Avis employees do try harder.... and it has paid off! I have now switched all my car rental business over to Avis and have become an ambassador of loyalty to the people who never take advantage of my business! Thank you for all you do.

Ranard Jones - Grand Rapids, MI - (submitted by: Amy Pawloski)
We had to rent a car from Avis to take our smallest son to the University of Michigan for tests. He had all of the sudden developed epilepsy and we had many appointments with specialists. We came into the office and this very happy, very kind man helped us get a car. At first we could not fit in the car they had on the lot, so he found us one with no problem or wait. We have been back to rent a car since and he has everything ready and we just sign. He knows how busy and stressed we are with our son, and he has gone above his job to help us every time with no hassles or waiting. It is a tremendous weight off of our shoulders. He is the most courteous and helpful person we have dealt with threw all our car rental experiences. He is always asking how our son is doing and wishes us good luck. No worries and problems just give him a call. We have rented from other places, but we have never met such a more helpful and outgoing individual in 15 years of renting. Thank you for taking care of our needs – we would not rent anywhere else.

Manager - Kissimmee, FL - (submitted by: Charles McCool)
I regret that I cannot recall the name of the Avis employee at the Kissimmee location that provided superb and impeccable customer service. After being loyal to another firm for several years (the larger one, associated with pain), I used Avis for a one-way rental from Ft. Lauderdale. The Kissimmee manager was pleasant when I returned the vehicle and I asked about getting back to my Disney hotel. He stopped all activity and graciously drove me back to the front of the hotel. I was expecting to take a public bus or an area shuttle. During the short drive, he enthusiastically explained why Avis is the best and only choice for car rentals and positively converted me back to the red guys. Little did he realize that his actions spoke louder than his words. He should be an example of effective customer relations to the entire travel industry.

Monica Y. Knox - Newark, NJ - (submitted by: Jeffrey J. Thiel)
As we were getting ready for our early morning flight home, we realized that my friend's wallet had been left in the rental car that we turned-in late the previous evening. Panicked, I called the local Avis number and by the grace of God was connected to Monica Y. Knox. After explaining the situation, Ms. Knox looked on the computer and discovered that the car was still on the lot, but nothing had been turned in to lost and found. At this point, she volunteered to take my number, go to the car herself and look for the wallet. Within 20 stressful minutes, Ms. Knox called and informed us that she had found the wallet.
This alone was wonderful, but her helpfulness did not end there. My friend, who had lost the wallet, is on disability and has difficultly walking great distances. With this in mind and figuring that since the rental car was in my name, I left him at the airport and made the journey back to the Avis desk. Upon arrival, Ms. Knox informed me that she could not release the wallet to me since it wasn't mine. Panicked not only because my friend would have difficulty making it to the rental agency, we were also in jeopardy of missing our flight. As I informed Ms. Knox of this, she offered to send an employee with me in a rental car to where my friend was waiting so the wallet could be returned properly. With this done, we made our flight and all was well. As I have relayed this story to my friends, no one can believe how helpful Ms. Knox was in this situation. We are both very grateful for the assistance that we were given by Monica Knox.

Beverly Benoit - Detroit, MI - (submitted by: Cathy Denny)
The day that I met Larry was his first day on the job. He was riding with Beverly and she was teaching him the ropes of customer service. (What a wise choice to put Beverly in this role) She is the ART of customer service...as well as Harmon!!) Larry fit right in; he conversed with me like he knew me. Asking about my trip and how my day was going. He was very personable. I am sure Larry will do very well for AVIS. He extended himself to ask if I needed help with my luggage and was kind and courteous to me. That is what it takes to keep me coming back to AVIS. We need more Harmon's, Beverly's and Larry's in the world!! Avis...these people are your bread and butter!!

Lavelle - Visalia, CA - (submitted by: Dolores F. Villavicencio)
One time I had reserved a van from Lavelle. When the time came for me to pick up the van that was supposed to be there for me, there was no van for me to use, it was not returned. Lavelle went out of his way and got me a van out of the Fresno area, which is approximately 40 miles away. This trip was very important because I had a medical test that I was supposed to take place at a Los Angeles doctor’s office. This member had provided other memorable services in the past. He has always made me feel as if I am the most important customer in the Visalia area. If there were more people like this person, I think people would love to rent vehicles whenever they were going to take trips, business or pleasure. He is a very dear friend of mine and surely to others. Please consider him for the Number One Employee.

Michelle Harrison - Charlotte, NC (submitted by: Bobby Tucker)
After turning in our vehicle we were still on stand-by to get a flight out and of course without an airline ticket you can't get through the security lines. When this young lady's shift was over she spotted my family and came over to find out the reason for our hold-up in the airport and she volunteered to get my family & me lunch. I was truly amazed because not only was she off of work, but also she was nice enough to show her concern for us after the fact of us renting from Avis. I know that she will go far with your company because in my years I've never had the pleasure of meeting someone like Michelle who chose to put me as the customer first; instead of just putting her time first. She made the ending of my business trip a pleasurable experience. If you ever decide not to keep this young lady I'll be one the first one in line to employ her.

Thomas Coulter - Mesa, AZ - (submitted by: Sean Kilburn)
It wasn't how well Tom had taken care of my wife and kids with their rental on their road-trip that would take volumes, and space we don't have. Nor would it be the excellent care Tom took with our recent rental; the attention to detail, the willingness and ability to accommodate our needs, down to knowing just how much gas was in our rental and crediting the account, finding just the right vehicle... the list goes on.
No, it was Tom's willingness to aid a customer ahead of me during my pickup. She needed help, and Tom kept calling every Avis office, utilizing every resource at his disposal to get her the vehicle she needed, yet keeping eye contact with me, letting me know he knew I was there, and valued.

Tom was the epitome of customer service, and others would do well to emulate his example. My family's vacation would never have been as exceptional without Tom's attention to detail - he got us the car we needed when we needed it ... and that's what it's all about, right?

Constance Crosson - Hilton Head Island, SC - (submitted by: Maralyn Seavolt)
This trip was for our 10th year wedding anniversary. We both have been working our knuckles to the bone and really needed a vacation. What should have been a simple flight from CMH to CLT to HHH turned out otherwise. We experienced holding pattern delays ultimately resulting in re-routing to an alternate airport to re-fuel. This also was wrought with delays. Our gate change at CLT was reminiscent of OJ Simpson sprinting through the airport. We finally arrived in Hilton Head at 1:30am expecting to find no services available. To our surprise, Ms. Crosson had waited into the early hours of the morning to handle our rental. She was very friendly and professional. This was in spite of the fact that she had to drive back to Savannah where she lives, only to return to work, but a few hours the same morning. She single-handedly turned a stressful and tiring day into the start of a lovely vacation. For this, we are very grateful.

Jackee Watlov - Bloomington, MN - (submitted by: Ruth Buchner)
On the evening of August 7th I went to the Enterprise desk to pick up a van I had made a reservation for to drive my daughter to New York City, as she will be going to school there. When I got to the desk I was told I could not take the vehicle out of a certain radius and they would not be able to rent to me. I was dumb struck. We had no choice but to go to another car rental company and next-door was Budget. They were all out. I began to panic!! We had to leave on the 9th and she had to pack the next day. Our next stop was the Avis desk. Jackie offered a blazer but it would not meet our needs. I saw a van in the lot and asked her if it was available. She called her manager and explained our circumstances. If this didn't work I didn't know what we would do. After a few minutes she was able to arrange for us a wonderful van, unlimited mileage and we were able to leave more grateful than anyone could ever imagine. P.S. You have our commitment to never rent from another company again. We chose the Enterprise dealer because it was the best deal on the internet. Best deal doesn't mean best service. We expressed our gratefulness to her and I'm glad to have the opportunity to let others know.

Ravinder Singh - New York, NY - (submitted by: Chris Huntington)
Ravinder Singh bailed me out of the great Blackout of 2003.
I had just returned to NYC from a trip overseas and my wife and daughter, who I had not seen in weeks, were up in Maine. I was desperate to get to them, but my car was sealed up in a powerless garage, so I went to Avis. Only problem: no reservation. Ravinder was running the only Avis outlet open that day in Manhattan and very politely told me that without a reservation I was unlikely to get a car. With nowhere to go I just hung around and watched the Avis team making the best of tough situation. Then I got a tap on the shoulder. It was Ravinder. He quietly asked me for my license and credit card. Moments later, I blissfully drove away in shiny new Alero...with a full tank of gas. Ravinder tried harder for my family and me. Thanks so much.

Sherkera McClusky & Dawn Flaugher - Dayton, OH - (submitted by: Robert Reinhartsen)
On a recent trip to Ohio, I had a car reservation with Avis. As I was checking in at the rental counter, I could not find my driver's license and was told I would not be able to rent a car without it. The above employees went through an exhaustive effort to secure a faxed copy of my license from the NJ DMV that was ultimately unsuccessful. However, knowing that I had an important meeting in Columbus, they then arranged a ride to my meeting in Columbus by using one of Avis' shuttle car drivers. There was a van scheduled for delivery to Columbus that afternoon but they accelerated it so that I did not have to wait.
I was not in the best of moods as this was all happening but Shekera and Dawn remained pleasant and apologetic the entire time.

Lloyd Hall - New York, NY - (submitted by: Rhona Landau)
I was running late at the airport a few weeks ago in Raleigh, NC. I had dropped off my car and had just missed the shuttle to the airport. Mr. Marsh who was perhaps on break saw that I was in a hurry and immediately pulled up in another shuttle and hurried me off to my terminal. He helped me gather my bags and got me to my flight just in time to get home and attend my son's program. It meant a lot to me and my 4-year-old son that I was there and thanks in part to Mr. Marsh I was - in the front row.

James Onserio - West Palm Beach, Fl - (submitted by: Manfred Puetz)
We arrived at PBI just after midnight on Thursday July 31. All of the rental counters were closed except one. James was at the Avis counter working very hard to fill ever request. I had booked a car online at one of your competitors and had even filled in our flight number so that they could see we arrived slightly late and yet they did not stay to meet us. James met your competitor’s rate and then when Avis did not have the same E class of car upgraded us to G class at no extra charge. Upon returning the car, the express check-in receipt was at a higher rate, but when we went in and discussed this with James he remembered us and switched it back immediately with no argument. Because of James, Avis just gained my business when I travel and I will tell people of my great experience.

Helen & Joe Akkawi - Pleasanton, CA - (submitted by: Shannon Arrington)
I was being sent to Pleasanton for extra training. I was thrilled! I had never traveled on company time before and thought this would be almost like a vacation. My company however didn't want to rent a car for me as they were trying to save money. My fiancée drove me to Pleasanton on Sunday the 13th with plans to pick me up the following Saturday. Long story short, the entire week turned out to be a complete disaster. One problem after another, it was awful! Luckily, class ended early, but now I had to rent a car to get back to Sacramento. I had a bad experience with car rental agencies in the past as I found many of them very expensive for short one-way trips, and not very friendly. Then I called Avis, and Helen Akkawi answered. She could tell I was frustrated, but she was extremely friendly and helpful and that was such a relief. When I got there on July 16th, both Helen and Joe Akkawi were there. They processed my paperwork and gave me the keys. I was very relieved to be on my way, but once again - another problem. I was too short to see over the steering wheel. I went back in and told Joe and Helen. Helen immediately went out to find a different car with power seats to get me up high enough to see over the steering wheel, but she couldn't find one. Then Joe went out looking for one. I couldn't believe it, I had had the worst week and now I couldn't even see over the steering wheel to get home. I was really feeling down.

While Joe went to the back I stood in the parking lot trying to figure out what I would do now. It was the last straw for the week. My eyes started to sting, and I had to fight back the tears. Neither Joe nor Helen knew I was this upset. Next thing I know Joe took me back in the office and started processing something on the computer. He handed Helen a set of keys and said, "Give her this one." Helen lit up with a big smile and handed me a set of keys, and said, "here ya go, this one has power EVERYTHING!"

It was the keys to a convertible Mustang! Since they couldn't find a car in the less expensive models, they went ahead and gave me a much more expensive car but only charged me the less expensive rate. I was so relieved! Helen came out and showed me how to work the convertible top and was cracking jokes and making me laugh. Helen and Joe had no idea how they helped me that day. They had no idea what a terrible week I had nor that I was about to break down in tears in their parking lot. They helped me so much that I really wanted to make sure they knew what wonderful people they are. I give them my most sincere thanks. Thank you so much Joe and Helen, you are the best!

PS. This was my first time using Avis but won't be my last!

Eddie Madrano & Eddie Javier - Santa Barbara, CA - (submitted by: Albert Dixon)
When I called Eddie Madrano and told him that I needed to rent a car because my wife and I were staying in a local RV park and had no transportation as our motor home was hooked up to the services in the RV park. I also explained that our small puppy that we brought with us was very sick and we had to get to a Veterinarian as soon as possible or our dog could die. He immediately sent a driver named Eddie Javier over to me at the RV park. I asked Eddie Javier if he knew of a good veterinarian in the area as we were from out of town and our puppy was very sick. He not only told me the location of the veterinarian, but he drew map that he showed me exactly how to get there. I immediately rented one of your cars and drove to the veterinarian’s office. They told me that they only take pets by appointment, but since my puppy was so sick that they would take her and that I could pick her up in a few hours. The veterinarian was the best I had ever been to and saved my puppies life. I told the vet that the wonderful employees at Avis helped me get my puppy there very fast. The vet said that Avis helped save my puppies life. Both Avis and that veterinarian are wonderful "above and beyond" people. Thank you Avis & both Eddie's that work there. By the way, we rented the car for a few days and enjoyed Santa Barbara.

Melrose - Los Angeles, CA - (submitted by: John Kafel)
After a 14-hour flight back from New Zealand, we needed to rent a car for a wedding. We had booked with another rental agency two months prior. After waiting for over an hour, I gave up, and got back on the shuttle bus, and went to Avis for the first time. Without a reservation, I really didn't expect much, and a long wait. The line was just as long, but within 15 minutes we were talking to Ms. Melrose. I showed her our confirmation letter with the other Agency and told her our story. She said she was sorry and asked a few questions. Then she said Avis was giving us an upgrade for our trouble. I was dumbfounded, as it wasn't Avis’ fault. I can only imagine what you would have done if it was. . She was just a breathe of fresh air for two very tired travelers. Avis just went to the top our Rental Car list. Thank you for a pleasant trip.

Chrissy Balzer - Oklahoma City, OK - (submitted by: David Owens)
My wife and I were stranded at a hotel in Oklahoma City. We had a reservation for a vehicle, but no way to get to the airport to get our car. We called the Avis reservation line, and were told that they didn't think it would be possible to come get us. That person did, however, say that he would ask his manager Chrissy if they could work something out. Almost before we were done brushing our teeth, Chrissy was on the phone saying that someone would be right out to take us to get our car. Ken came and picked us up, and we were driving away in our car in no time.

Since we were in town due to a death in the family, having Avis go the extra (several) miles for us took away some major stress that we just did not need at that moment. Thank you Chrissy, and Avis, for not just trying harder, but succeeding in making us satisfied customers.


Lillian Harrod & Maurice Johnson - Louisville, KY - (submitted by: Aundra W. LaFayette)
Before I get started, I would like to say Lillian Harrod has the most amazing smile ever. That is what you are greeted with upon your arrival at Avis. A good morning is always in great taste. I enjoy going to this Avis because I get treated the same all of the time. I get my needs filled so far as renting a car. I am a very tall person with very long legs so therefore I need a very comfortable car. You always get a choice. Being in business to try harder is the best thing going. I can approve, that is such a great slogan, plus, you live up to the name. Going to rent a car from Lillian and Maurice is like going to your folk’s home for dinner. They are in the business to please their customers; customer service is the most important factor at their location. Their office is neat and clean, they are always neat and clean with their uniforms, and bathrooms are clean. I look for all of these things when I am doing business or just being in someone’s company. Remembering your name, remembering what type of care the customer likes, being personable is a plus!!!!!!!!

This We Try Harder is the best thing going, I would want everyone know how I am treated because if the world had more Avis location like the Harrod at L9V you wouldn't have to look any further - believe me. I rent cars often, every time I go out of town. It is like a holiday for me to rent a car. I also tell all of my friends about my very own Avis location, therefore that brings them much more business. That is what it's all about. I went to another dealer, just to compare the service, it did not work for me, and of course I did not rent the car, I was just doing some testing. I went back, told Lillian about my experience we both laughed and I rented my car. I am a person that loves five star service, restaurants, car rentals friends and etc. There is only one rental agent to rent cars from and that is Avis, but of course the L9V in Louisville, Kentucky. By the way let me tell you one more wonderful reason why I love my location. One morning I was so excited to leave town I got my keys locked in the car. (The rental car) I called Lillian and of course I felt so stupid. With the wonderful and soothing voice of Lillian , there is no need to get yourself all worked up she will take care of the problem ASAP!!!!! She did not sweat, I waited at home for the most wonderful service, She came with another key and I was on my way. Now, that is service with a smile. I was truly on my way. With customer service like that how can you go wrong? "WE TRY HARDER" is PERFECT. Please keep up the good work. Avis until I die!!!!

Lisa Castillero - Greensboro, NC - (submitted by: Norman Snipes)
I’ve rented cars often from other companies including Avis. The customer service that I’ve received was just average from Avis in the past. There was very little that differentiated Avis from the other rental agencies. But after renting from Avis a few months ago, Lisa Castillero made such an impression on me. She has always made sure I had the best car for the best price. One time in particular, Avis had a hold on my credit card even after I returned the vehicle, I telephoned Lisa and she immediately resolved the issue. Lisa was friendly, caring, and helpful. Her attentiveness makes me feel as though I’m the only customer Avis has that matters. Because of her helpfulness, kindness, and excellent customer service, she has turned me into a returning and loyal customer of Avis, oppose to a possible random customer. Because of her, I will always consider Avis first for my rental needs. I refer all my friends and family to Avis because of Lisa’s willingness to go above and beyond. I wish every rental company as well as customer service-oriented businesses had a "Lisa Castillero" because she not only tries harder, but she tries her hardest!

Diane Heath - Sheridan, WY - (submitted by: Judith Johnson)
We are from Wichita, KS. While vacationing in Wyoming, our minivan broke down about 60 miles west of Sheridan on July 31. There were 6 of us and we spent the better part of Friday (8/1) determining how get home. We decided to make arrangements to tow the van, and rent a car for the rest of the family. Diane was so kind and worked with us checking several options before setting us up in a nice car to ride the almost 1,000 miles home. She had such a caring attitude in this stressful situation and we just appreciated her help and service more than words can express. This was our first experience renting from Avis and she has convinced us that AVIS will be our rental car company in the future. Thank you!!

Paulette Daley - Richmond, VA - (submitted by: Steven A. Weronski)
During my search for an appropriate vehicle for my vacation trip, Paulette went above and beyond what most rental agents I've dealt with in the past would have done to find the vehicle I wanted. She VERY patiently went through a wide variety of selections and answered a lot of questions from me regarding cost and mileage rates and even car colors! I also am in the customer service business and I can honestly say that I've met someone who delivers the level of customer service and satisfaction that I do. This young lady is a definite asset to your organization. My heartfelt thanks to her for "trying harder." I know I do not need to look anywhere else for my future car rental needs.

Jordan Sutton - Aspen, CO - (submitted by: John G. & Linda L. Hoeschler)
Jordan Sutton's performance last week would turn anyone into a loyal, lifelong Avis customer! My husband rented a luxury car (he thought) on Priceline because 4 of us adults were spending 10 days in the Aspen-Boulder areas of Colorado. (I have been encouraging him to become more internet savvy, and this was his first attempt at Priceline.com; in his enthusiasm, he paid for an extra day--so much for savings!) At the Denver Airport we were told, that although we specified a luxury vehicle on Priceline, it only translated into a Premium level car--a disappointing fact. We were given a Bonneville to drive, which turned out to be miserable with its stiff suspension and small back seat; I pleaded to my husband that Aspen day trips were out--hiking was the only alternative!

However, one of our foursome is 75, so we in fact needed to use the car for his sake. The first night in Aspen I called the Avis counter at the airport, and asked to either switch cars or upgrade. I was told that nothing was available. In desperation, we all went to the airport, and the counter person, Juan, said there might be a Cadillac later in the week, at best. He offered to switch us to a LeSabre then and there, but we tested it and found it only marginally better. Jordan Sutton then appeared and asked if he could help us. He said that there looked to be nothing available, but that he'd look further. He searched for a while on his computer and then walked behind the terminal and found us a Park Lane.

He brought it around, quickly switched the paper work, and wished us well. What a better car! Jordan turned a painful start of much needed vacation into a pleasurable time. I asked Jordan about his career (I teach at a business school and have run several companies, so am always interested in employee advancement) and he said he had worked for Avis for 8 years. He's a college grad with a family of two children. I truly recommend that you groom and promote him. He is not only service oriented; he has outstanding command presence, coupled with a sincere, pleasant demeanor. I will now go to Avis first whenever we rent a car!

Brooke - Lansing, MI - (submitted by: Debra A. Smith)
Brooke changed my reservation rate when I explained I was an AARP member. She took the time to make two separate reservations--allowing me to return the first rental car the next day and then check out a second car (leading to lower rates). Throughout the transaction, she was courteous, caring, and committed to doing everything possible to make my experience an enjoyable one. She is a true professional--and is an asset to the Avis family! Because of her, I'm saying "Goodbye" to National, Alamo, and Hertz and "Hello" to Avis!

Beverly White - Cleveland, OH - (submitted by: Tim & Becky Thomman)
We originally rented from Dollar and then they had nothing available at the last minute. We went to Avis and Beverly White helped us tremendously. We were in need of a van and they were gone so we booked a car and she helped us into a SUV. We had our credit card stolen two days earlier and she really helped turn our vacation around. She deserves a raise. She is one of the sweetest and most helpful people I have encountered. We rent annually and will definitely only rent from AVIS. You need more employees like her.

Doris Nimocks - Chicago, IL - (submitted by: Joshua Zorger)
I had an emergency and it was the weekend of the Air and Water Show here in Chicago. I had to get to Indianapolis and the water pump went out in our car. All of the places that I called were unable to help me and even Alamo, across the hall who I used before, was unable to help me. So, I walked into Avis and Doris was able to not only help me get a car to rent, but she was also able to get me a corporate discount through my company. I was very pleased and because she saved me money I rented a convertible to make my girlfriend happy.

I was also impressed because Doris stressed to me that customer satisfaction was very important to Avis and she did a wonderful job to ensure my happiness and obtain my business in the future. She also made sure that I understood all of the terms and costs and even put my frequent flier miles number into the system, so I would get miles. She also wrote down all the information for me on a little card that I could keep in my wallet with my W number to use the next time, so things will be quick and convenient. I was very impressed and because of Doris's great customer service, I was able to make it to Indianapolis on time. From now on when I need to rent a car, it will be from Avis. Thanks Doris!

Pam Ragon and Carolyn Edwards - Amarillo, TX - (submitted by: James McBride)
After our last rental experience, we have decided that AVIS stands for Absolutely Very Incredible Service! We rented a vehicle from your Amarillo, Texas airport location. Pam and Carolyn were our service representatives. They are friendly, outgoing, sharp professionals who did an outstanding job. They took the time to explain each available option (insurance policies, gas-fills, etc.), but didn't subject us to a high-pressure sales pitch. They provided us with a free upgrade, as there were no cars available in the class we had reserved. They even bothered to ask us if we needed a rental in the future, and then gave us a tremendous discount when we booked it three months in advance! Pam signed us for the Wizard program as Carolyn completed our paperwork: we did not even know the Wizard program existed! A third customer service rep (Jimmy) came over after finishing with his customer, and asked if there was any way he could help. It was absolutely amazing: we completed one rental, booked another at a huge savings, and signed up for the Wizard program: ALL IN LESS THAN FIVE MINUTES! Your customer service representatives are a great team: sharp, fast, and thorough. Hats off to your ABSOLUTELY VERY INCREDIBLE SERVICE!!!!!

Steve Perkins - San Antonio, TX - (submitted by: Jonathan Sherman)
I came into town to rent a car to drive to Austin for a day. Problem was all I had was a bankcard. Hertz turned me down saying I couldn’t rent a car with that card and I needed a regular credit card to put down as collateral. Then I went to the Avis desk where the price of the car was about half that of Hertz. But the desk agent, Steve Perkins said he couldn’t do it either without a regular credit card. So, I called me wife and asked her to try to book the car on-line, but her modem had just broken. Finally, Steve tried a little harder and said he’d make an exception, allowing me to rent the car with my ATM card. I can’t tell you how relieved I was! From now on, Hertz no longer exists in my mind - only Avis because Steve Perkins “tried harder,” a lot harder.

Joshua Gordon - Newark, NJ - (submitted by: Anthony Marcigliano)
We were taking a trip to Maine for a family reunion. We needed a vehicle that could carry 2 adults, 3 teenagers, and 2 children, plus all of our luggage. I was interested in a 7-passenger mini-van, but was told that none were available for my specific dates. I tried several times to make a reservation for a mini-van, with no success. As a result, I made a reservation for a premium vehicle. When we arrived at the counter to pick up our vehicle, Mr. Joshua Gordon greeted us very courteously and professionally. During our transaction, I asked Mr. Gordon if they had any mini-vans available. Mr. Gordon went out of his way to check if any were available for us, and sure enough, they did have one! He processed the paperwork for our mini-van, and as a result of Mr. Gordon's "Trying Harder," we had a much more comfortable trip in our Avis mini-van. Thank You Joshua Gordon and Avis for going the extra mile and helping to make our trip a very memorable experience. As a result, you have gained a dedicated Avis customer!

Angie Thompson - Madison, WI - (submitted by: Jeffrey S. Russell)
The eve before an anticipated family vacation to Wyoming our car indicated engine problems. The Madison Avis representative saved our vacation by locating the needed mini-van for our family of seven within a few hours. During the trip we encountered a flat tire and had difficulty with the power locks and door. The Avis representative in Wyoming was apologetic and reassuring. The quick-thinking Avis service technician replaced our tire with one from another vehicle currently in the shop--saving hours of waiting and providing peace of mind for the trip home. The Madison Avis representative, Angie Thompson, was extremely gracious when we called to indicate a late return. She showed sincere concern that our experience with Avis was not completely positive. Although we didn't ask, she looked for alternatives to adjust our rate to compensate for our inconveniences. Her attentiveness and diligence to insure our satisfaction was extraordinary. We believe Avis is a "team of employees" who ALL try harder to solve problems, reduce inconvenience, insure satisfaction, and provide the confidence and peace of mind you'd hope for in a rental company. There is no doubt. We'll turn to Avis first when we need a rental car.

Elisjah Arnlund - Hays, KS - (submitted by: Donna Botts)
We broke down along the interstate, and Elijah came and picked up my wife and family to get the rental while I met the tow truck. When I returned the car days later, again he transported me to another location after I returned the car. He was very professional and helpful.

 

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