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I just got back from the Dentist and while he seems perfectly professional, he had absolutely no personality. Cold as ice. No smile, small talk or greeting of any kind.
My family physician is the same. ALL BUSINESS. Very professional but cold as ice.
Went to get my haircut and the barber did not exchange any small talk at all, just cut my hair.
I understand these guys are busy and have a job to do but shouldn't they at least engage me in 30 seconds of small talk?
What are you small talk, smile or greeting expectations of your Dentist, Doctor, Vet, or Barber (Hair Stylist)?
Aren't you in northern VA? I'd think larger, faster paced metros will be less friendly. That said, I'm surprised at how much less friendly Indianapolis is than Boston and New England.
I expect the doctor, dentist, and vet to know me and my needs if I've been there awhile, and to be polite, but we're not personal friends. If they come across as unwilling to talk about my business need or are simply inattentive, then I can find services elsewhere.
The barber is a bit different. I've always known most male barbers in traditional barbershop to be chatty.
No, I have a number of friends and a large family to socialize with. I am not asking them to be my friend but maybe a warm greeting and 30 seconds of small talk.
To the extent that barbers, dentists, and doctors can have their customers go elsewhere if dissatisfied, then they will be more successful if they possess some feelings of human warmth that are perceived somehow by their clients/patients.
Of course the MOST important thing is the competence of the barber/dentist/doctor. But the human connection factor is not unimportant. And depending on how insecure the patient/customer is, that human connection factor may really be the most important thing after all. A bit of genuine warmth does make the interaction more pleasant.
To the extent that barbers, dentists, and doctors can have their customers go elsewhere if dissatisfied, then they will be more successful if they possess some feelings of human warmth that are perceived somehow by their clients/patients.
Of course the MOST important thing is the competence of the barber/dentist/doctor. But the human connection factor is not unimportant. And depending on how insecure the patient/customer is, that human connection factor may really be the most important thing after all. A bit of genuine warmth does make the interaction more pleasant.
This! If I don't like those people I've freely chosen to give my business to, then I don't return. I don't need warm and fuzzy, but I do need some acknowledgement that I am more than just adding to somebody's bottom line.
I actually prefer them to be friendly and make me comfortable. They do not have to take me out for beer and chicken wings, Just a warm environment and a human touch. My barber for example is really great, Offers me Turkish tea if he is having some when I come in. This is a bonus in addition to his personality. Dealing with a George Romero style zombie is awkward for me.
Maybe they just don't want to talk to you specifically?
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