Being Receptive to Good Manners

Summary

The article discusses the importance of good manners, particularly the use of "ma'am" as a respectful form of address for older women, and contrasts it with the overfamiliarity often encountered in customer service interactions.

Abstract

The author of the article empathizes with women who may feel sensitive about being called "ma'am," acknowledging that it can be a reminder of one's age. However, the author argues that this form of address should be appreciated as a sign of respect and common courtesy, which seems to be declining in modern interactions. The article emphasizes that politeness and respect are more important than the discomfort of being reminded of one's age. The author also expresses distaste for the lack of politeness when customer service representatives use first names without permission, suggesting that a polite and respectful greeting is preferable to unwarranted familiarity.

Opinions

The author believes that being addressed as "ma'am" is a gesture of respect that should be valued, despite its association with age.
There is a concern that common courtesy and politeness are being lost in contemporary society.
The author finds it offensive when customer service representatives use first names without asking, viewing it as a breach of politeness.
The article suggests that there should be a clear distinction between being friendly and being overly familiar.
The author advocates for more polite greetings that convey respect, especially in customer service interactions.

Being Receptive to Good Manners

Group of Hens with Rooster, Deposit photos

For all the women out there, who have a problem being referred to as ma’am, I get it.

With one word, you are instantly reminded of your age and appearance.

Like me, you’re probably no spring chicken, but let’s get over it and appreciate it for what it is.

We’ve gotten so far away from common courtesy and being polite, and yet it’s the nicest gesture of respect you can give to someone older who’s earned recognition for reaching a specific stage of life.

I’m more offended when someone doesn’t lead with politeness and starts with familiarity; Like when you call customer service, and they use your first name without asking — that’s never okay with me.

We can be friendly, but we’re not friends.

So, what’s wrong with a polite greeting that also marks respect?

Absolutely nothing, and we need more of it.

Being Receptive to Good Manners

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