Re: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar...

I think that it's true most of the time. It takes a lot of self-control to be nice and polite about something when you're really p*ssed, though.

Message edited 3/9/2007 11:36:44 AM.

Re: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar...

I think the statement is usually true, but there are some people in this world who consistently get their way by being loud and obnoxious -- proving the opposite adage, "the squeaky wheel gets the grease."

Re: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar...

I work in Customer Service - it's 100% true !!

Re: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar...

I've worked in Customer Service in the past, and I remember the bad customers, not the good ones (unfortunately).

That being said, for the most part, I try to be pleasant when dealing with a difficult situation. But, there have been times that being nice has not gotten a situation solved to my satisfaction. At those points, I have had to be difficult and demanding to something resolved.

I think it really depends on the situation, and who you are dealing with.

Re: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar...

Re: You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar...

I have worked in customer service related jobs for a long time. I treat everyone the same - as best as I can - from a receptionist to the CEO.

It's my job to solve problems and make them happy, and also to try to soothe the fears and anger of people. I won't respond with the same anger that they are showing me from the get-go and make an attempt to ease the situation with kindness and calm.

But if that doesn't work and they are being unreasonable, I become all business and don't go out of my way. They get what is required of me and nothing more.

When I have a problem, I am always nice up front. But if I'm being taken advantage of and not being treated well or given what I deserve, I have and will get firm to get what I want.