Smooth Operator

Dear Alisa and Gina,

I called the phone company operator today because I couldn’t get through to the number I was calling. The operator couldn’t have been ruder. She acted like I was annoying her. She interrupted me, and implied I was an idiot because I didn’t understand why the number I dialed (in my own town) required that I dial the area code. I stayed calm, but she could tell I was annoyed.

I felt angry and embarrassed. I never asked for her name. Should I call the phone company and report her (though I’m not sure how much good that would do; I thought of asking her for her name, but I’m pretty sure she would have given me a fake name), or is this just a lesson for the next time? ~ My ears are ringing

Yes, you should report her. Even if you don’t know exactly who she is, the team might get a lesson on how to talk to customers. And you’ll feel better. (P.S. Next time, get the name first). ~ Gina

I think that you can follow Gina’s advice – but there’s also a great opportunity here to get another piece of learning. This isn’t just about speaking up to be treated in a considerate manner. Your experience can also give you a momentary insight into the difficulties others face. Can you imagine what it must be like to be the person who only receives difficult phone calls all day long? I’m sure that your rude operator never hears anything nice. Now you might say that’s because she deserves it, but it could also be that it’s the position she holds. So yes, speak up for yourself. And also, consider what the other person’s life contains as well. ~ Alisa