You’ve probably heard about postal customer councils, but how much do you know about them?
The councils, also known as PCCs, are local organizations that work to foster a closer working relationship between the Postal Service and commercial mailers and shippers, with the goal of sharing information about USPS products, programs, services and procedures.
The Post Office Department organized the first councils in 1961 to improve communications between postal managers and customers. At the time, they were known as local mailer users’ councils or citizens’ advisory councils.
The councils first came into prominence in the mid-1960s. In 1971, the name was changed to postal customer councils.
Today, there are 94 councils across the nation.
PCCs organize activities such as National Postal Customer Council Week, which gives USPS leaders opportunities to speak at local PCC events across the nation; tours of USPS plants for businesses; and events at local Post Offices for small businesses.
The councils also help USPS employees stay aware of concerns and issues that business mailers and shippers have and offer employees certification courses to grow professionally.
Mark Janda, customer relations manager for the Postal Service’s Minnesota-North Dakota District, said his involvement in the Twin Cities Postal Customer Council has helped him with his career.
“Because of my involvement, I have learned about the intricacies of proper address management, been continually updated on our promotions and have even been invited to attend the National Postal Forum on two separate occasions, which is not something regularly available to individuals holding any of my USPS positions — past or present,” he said.
In addition to area customer relations managers like Janda, PCCs rely on the support of area vice presidents, district managers, district customer relations managers, customer relations coordinators, plant managers, postmasters, business mail entry managers and supervisors, and sales representatives.
“While my favorite part of being in the group is simply meeting and networking with other people, the educational opportunities for my personal and professional growth have really helped me elevate my career,” Janda said.
The PostalPro website has more information about PCCs.
“Primers,” a new Postal Service explanatory column, will appear occasionally in Link.
