MODERN G.P.O.

Waipa Post, Volume 42, Issue 3302, 28 May 1931, Page 2

MODERN G.P.O.

OUT AFTER BUSINESS.

After all there is no earthly reason why the General Post Office should not adopt some of the methods of an ordinary business concern, for, when all is said and done that is what it is, writes a Sydney correspondent. However, Australians are so used to the independent attitude adopted in the past by this great concern of theirs that it takes them some time to become accustomed to the " hustle" methods that are now being practised with the idea of securing more business, and, incidentally, more revenue. With the coming of the depression the revenue fell away alarmingly, and it was recognised that the department could not be satisfied to allow things to drift without making any attempt to "keep the pot boiling." There was a time when, if a subscriber to the telephone did not pay his fee within the day, or even the hour, fixed. by the department, the connection would be discontinued without further ado. It is different now., A subscriber is given every latitude, and all sorts of reasonable terms are being offered for the encouragement and retention of business. Not long ago half-yearly accounts were the unalterable rule. Those who find the half-yearly burdens too great can arrange for monthly accounts. No telephone subscriber is allowed to be cut off without a struggle to retain him by the department. Special officers are sent out to make a financial arrangement that will be acceptable to the subscriber.

Mothers' Day last Sunday provided an example of the modern methods adopted by the Commonwealth Postal Department to keep abreast the times. A man without an idea for a Mothers' Day telegram was given a list of phrases from which to choose. This was prominently displayed in all the post offices, and was as follows: — " Every day is Mother's Day for me; lots of love." " Wiring ■ pounds as a token of my love on Mother's Day." " My thoughts are with you in love and gratitude this Mothers' Day " " Tender memories of your loving care and gentle forbearance." Not only that but every endeavour was made to induce people to send their Mothers' Day message by telegram. The search of the G.P.O. for business does not end with enterprise of that kind. When overseas ships are leaving or entering the harbour there is always an official aboard to take telegrams from the passengers. Such departures from the routine provide, not only a convenience for the public, but they are not unprofitable. From ships in the harbour the department receives on the average 50 telegrams a week, and it is believed that very few of those would be forwarded, if special arrangements were not made for their collection. People are now being encouraged to collect debts by telegraph, and the department is ready to assist those who find some difficult in phrasing the messages. The point of view of the department may be summed up in the words of the Deputy Director at Sydney: "The mere fact that we are a monopoly," he says, " carries a moral obligation to secure the highest efficiency, and the best results."