We get it. It's hot outside, the AC is on, people are coming in to cool down, we get it, we even offer them fans. What we don't get is people coming in while talking on the phone. Telling the boss they are at home and the camera is not working, venting about the husband (this can get really juicy) or being really nasty with ugly gossip, we heard it all.
Not only that, they have the nerve to signal me with their hand that they are on the phone (like I can not see or hear it) and then cover the other ear because my music is too loud for them. I wish I could blame it on the Millennials, but nope! These are people from all ages, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Y and Z. Am I wrong to think that there is a huge difference between strolling in a mall for hours talking on the phone, and opening a physical door to a small shop and behaving like you are in a public space? I can see them glancing at our red sofa and I am thinking "DON'T YOU DARE!"
What do you tell these people? How do you get them out of my "home"? The boutique is such a small and personal space that is meant to be welcoming and inspiring, not a phone booth... sometimes it's just Phyllis or me in the boutique, so it is really a one-on-one type of thing. With one person having a very intimate conversation, it can become really uncomfortable. Should we step out to give them some privacy???
I have my theory on why this is happening, but I am not taking the risk of sounding like a grumpy old woman, so the question is, what can we do about it? I am not on an education mission, I have no intent to teach them better, but I do need them out of LiLi The First.
8 comments
Emma Kinev
Just write no phones in the boutique, private conversations to be upheld outside.
None of your regular customers would behave like that. The type you described is nobody’s crowd.
Anonymous
As we say in the South,”Bless your Heart”! You certainly have a lot of business to talk about. You should come back when we can have your undivided attention, and find you some wonderful pieces to enhance your wardrobe! And yes, drape your sofa with clothes like someone said before! You got this!!😀💃
Chris Masbe
Hang a cute sign on the door “please keep your phone calls outside the shop. We gossip!”