They Must Be A Joy At A Comedy Club

I work at a call center that works directly with a specialty physician’s office. We’re basically here so that the people who work in that office aren’t overloaded with checking patients in and out, taking and making calls, dealing with insurances, and refilling medications.

I always try to keep a cheery disposition because the stuff our patients deal with is not easy and often leads to chronic pains along with being immunocompromised. Most patients really love this, as it helps cheer them up and helps me build rapport.

Me: “Thank you for calling [Specialty]. This is [My Name]; how can I help you today?”

Caller: “[Wrong Pronunciation Of My Name]?”

Me: “Actually, it’s [My Name].”

Caller: “[Second Wrong Pronunciation]?”

This isn’t unusual. My name is often confused with others due to the spelling and pronunciation so it’s often misheard and I just try to accept it to move on.

Me: *Chuckling* “Ha, don’t worry about it. You can just call me [Easy-To-Pronounce Nickname].”

Caller: *In a mocking tone* “F****** h***, quit your laughing. You’re at work, for Christ’s sake.”

Me: *Taken aback* “I-I, err, sor—”

Caller: “You know what? F*** this. I’ll just f****** call back later.”

With that, she hung up. I was left wondering the rest of the day where it was that I went wrong. Can’t win them all, I guess.