Yesterday was role reversal day.

I was the participant, quietly being trained rather than standing up front delivering the message.

The trainer was teaching my team how to use Microsoft 365.

I know, that’s what I thought too.

But it was interesting and I received a certificate for my good word.

However, there was a challenge. Stuart, our trainer, kept calling me Mike.

I know it shouldn’t be a big deal, but it kind of was. 

The first few just went over my head, but it was when he drew a chart and wrote ‘Mike’s Folder’ on it that I had to mention I prefer to be called Michael.

And while we’re on it, it’s Christine not Chris.

‘No problem’, said Stu.

^^^ see what I did there? ^^^

It was a problem. He just kept calling me Mike and Christine, Chris.

I know that puts me towards the end of a certain spectrum; but if it’s important to me – the customer, perhaps it should also be important him, the provider?

You’d think so. 

So is the customer always right?

Of course not. But with simple stuff, you bet they are.

If they want it in pink, give them it in pink.

If they want to talk and talk, asking all manner of crazy questions - listen up, answer in detail and ask if they need and more information. 

If they want their steak ‘cremated’, sod the chef, burn it.

If they haven’t read the instructions properly, then it’s because they’re human.

And if they ask to be called Michael, don’t call them Mike.

Be Brilliant!