Professional courtesy
I just got back from the optometrist, and I have to say--what a pleasant experience. He was really nice, didn't tell stupid stories or jokes, treated me like a professional, and didn't try to get me to buy glasses or contacts from him.
His office is about 20 blocks north of mine, and though I took the subway up there, I decided to walk back. I noticed a Jamba Juice right near the office, so I decided to go in. I've never had one before, and I thought it would continue my nice afternoon if I got one. I went for the low-calorie option--Mango Mantra. The people working there were also really nice, which I didn't expect after Gothamist complained about how the whole California feel of Jamba Juice can't be replicated in New York.
Anyway, has anyone else noticed that other types of professionals really treat you seriously when you tell them you're a professor? I don't know anything about medicine or optometry, but both my dr. and my optometrist went out of the way to tell me technical details about my ailments/eyes (the latter really aren't ailing), presumably thinking that I'd understand. The same thing happened to Super G at the eye dr. the other day too (different doctor. And he's not a prof, but he probably told them he's a scientist). I don't really understand, but I do appreciate the professional courtesy.
posted by Ianqui at 5:48 PM
4 Comments:
Mmmm. Mango.
I get (and enjoy) the professional courtesy thing too. Also, when I have to send in any kind of written complaint to any business (airline issues, delivery problems, whatever) I always use "Dr" since finishing grad school. I'm absolutely sure I've gotten much better treatment as Dr Sniffly than as Miss/Ms. Sniffly. Guess that's not surprising - useful, though.
The professional courtesy thing makes me uncomfortable. I don't think I'd get the same level of care if I were a pregnant, single, Latino teen-ager, and I think that's unfair. I guess I worry that I am often just reaping the benefits of white middle-class privilege and classism.
I've experienced the professional courtesy, too, but not all the time. The health care professionals I interact with are the best about this. Also, like Dr. Sniffly, when writing any complaint (or thank you) letter about service, etc. I use the "Dr." thing and find it makes a huge difference (even though I don't think it should).
Glad you had a good doc experience.
Post a Comment
<< Home