When I answer closed ended questions it’s usually with a yes or no followed by ma’am or sir. Whether I’m speaking to my three-year-old nieces, my 6-year-old clients, my mom (y’all don’t need to know her age), my supervisor, the lady at the Rally’s window who took my order, or whomever, it’s just nice. To get respect you've gotta give it right? Now I’m not expecting people to return with an okay ma’am or whatever, but hey, if they do then they do. I've got no problem with that!
Yes ma’ams and no sirs are just a sign of respect for me. BUT people trip off of it. Not in a rude way. I respond to co-workers emails by saying “yes ma’am, thank you for the information” or “no ma’am I won’t be able to do XYZ.” One co-worker in particular will respond (whether it’s email or in person) “I’m not old!” or “really?! How old are you?” Lady, you’re older than I am, but age doesn't matter when it comes to showing respect. I've even had a man tell me, “oh no, sir is my father,” hmm, insert my fake laugh, good one.
Are my means of respect dated or old school? If someone addressed you as such, how would you respond?
Yes ma’ams and no sirs are just a sign of respect for me. BUT people trip off of it. Not in a rude way. I respond to co-workers emails by saying “yes ma’am, thank you for the information” or “no ma’am I won’t be able to do XYZ.” One co-worker in particular will respond (whether it’s email or in person) “I’m not old!” or “really?! How old are you?” Lady, you’re older than I am, but age doesn't matter when it comes to showing respect. I've even had a man tell me, “oh no, sir is my father,” hmm, insert my fake laugh, good one.
Are my means of respect dated or old school? If someone addressed you as such, how would you respond?
WRITTEN BY: VIOLA CONSTANCE | @Voila_its_Viola
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